The current report “Understanding Stellar Energy” by RethinkX describes a fundamental transformation of our energy system through the large-scale expansion of solar energy, wind power and battery storage – in short: SWB. These three technologies together create a completely new energy model, which RethinkX calls “Stellar Energy”. The focus is no longer on the continuous consumption of fossil fuels, but on the one-off construction and use of infrastructure that supplies energy for decades – clean, local, cost-effective and potentially abundant.
A common misconception is that solar and wind energy are unreliable due to their weather-dependent fluctuations. RethinkX clearly contradicts this: batteries are a key element in balancing out these fluctuations – whether directly next to solar fields, as central storage in the electricity grid or decentralized in buildings. Other flexibility options such as load management, grid networks or other storage technologies can also contribute to system security. In addition, electricity production from sun and wind is not random, but can be predicted meteorologically – this enables targeted planning of electricity generation and use.
RethinkX presents several analytical tools – including the Clean Energy U-Curve, the SWB Superpower Curve and the SWB Coverage Curve. They help regions and decision-makers to design optimal SWB systems and accelerate the transformation. The report argues for a paradigm shift: instead of minimizing energy consumption, production should be maximized – because abundant energy opens up new opportunities for industry, infrastructure, agriculture, water desalination or recycling. Abundance does not mean waste, but enables applications that were previously unthinkable for cost reasons.
According to RethinkX, “Stellar Energy” is not a theoretical vision of the future, but a realistic and economically attractive option that is already technically feasible today. The necessary technologies are ready for the market, the challenge lies in implementing them quickly and decisively. Those who courageously drive forward the change will benefit from falling energy costs, growing prosperity and a clear push towards sustainability.
Click here to download the report
