The emergence of early humans, when compared to the 13.8 billion-year-old universe, seems like a fleeting moment, akin to the time it takes to drink a cup of coffee. However, this brief period has been sufficient for Homo sapiens not only to explore but also to enact profound changes on Earth. We now understand that the remaining lifespan of Earth is at most 5 billion years, assuming the sun gradually becomes hotter and eventually transforms into a red giant that could engulf our planet.
Consequently, humanity is now contemplating interstellar living. Achieving such an ambitious goal requires mastering natural phenomena like wind, rain, storms, and earthquakes, as well as securing a stable energy source, which is the most critical need for life in space. According to statistics, in 2024, renewable energies accounted for 32% of total global energy production, showing a 2% increase from the previous year.
However, many countries are currently facing energy imbalances and shortages. This situation makes the development of renewable energy sources with potentially infinite lifespans an appealing solution to address both current and future needs. Renewable energies such as solar, wind, geothermal, and hydro are not only inexhaustible but also have a lesser environmental impact compared to fossil fuels. In Iran, by the end of the year 1403 (March 2025), the installed capacity for renewable electricity generation has reached 1700 megawatts, and the government has plans to increase this by 5000 megawatts by the end of 1404 (March 2026).
One of the most promising avenues is the development of lifetime batteries. These batteries are designed either not to require recharging or to have a lifespan significantly longer than existing batteries. Innovations like solid-state batteries and nuclear batteries have been developed, which can operate for up to 10 years or even decades without recharging. These advancements also contribute to cost reduction, improved safety, and enhanced environmental capabilities.
The deployment of such revolutionary technology will undoubtedly transform major industries like steel, refineries, petrochemicals, and power plants, as well as medium-sized industries such as automobile manufacturing. Imagine no longer needing to charge your mobile phone — a change that would significantly simplify life.
Admittedly, it's often said that a cyclist is disastrous for the economy: they don't buy cars, take out loans to purchase them, pay insurance, or buy fuel. However, on the other hand, when energy imbalances turn into shortages, and no clear path back exists, and these crises threaten security, governments have no choice but to adopt advanced technologies that address the primary issue while simultaneously improving citizens' quality of life.
I am pleased to inform you that we have commenced research in this area. With the support of Iran's Oil Minister, Mohsen Paknezhad — himself deeply committed to technological and scientific innovations — we hope the results of these studies will bear fruit in the coming years.
Reza Mokhtar, Energy Researcher