Aluminum a Key Material for Renewable Energy
With its lightweight strength and unmatched corrosion-resistance and durability, aluminum is widely used to build renewable energy platforms like solar panels and wind turbines.
Leading the Way on Solar
As the world moves toward an increasingly renewable future, aluminum is helping to lead the way. According to a 2020 study by the World Bank, aluminum is the single most widely used mineral material in solar photovoltaic (PV) applications. In fact, the metal accounts for more than 85% of the mineral material demand for solar PV components – from frames to panels.
Aluminum extrusions are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect option for solar panel frames. The metal can even improve solar cells themselves. Using embedded aluminum studs can significantly increase solar panel efficiency thanks to the material’s unique reflectivity properties.
A Range of Possibilities
Aluminum is also a critical component in other low carbon technologies including wind, energy storage and hydroelectricity. The metal is used widely in both on-shore and off-shore wind projects, including tower platform components and turbines. And aluminum-ion batteries have the potential to revolutionize energy storage systems.
According to the World Bank’s analysis, a robust effort to combat climate change could more than double demand for aluminum by 2050 compared to the base case scenario.
Build Green With Aluminum
Lightweight, strong, durable, corrosion resistant and infinitely recyclable, aluminum builds a more sustainable structure. And with a 70+ year life span for some building products, it's a material that will serve generations to come.
The Aluminum Association has several resources to support stakeholders' use of aluminum as a sustainable construction material. Whether you're wanting to know the Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for various types of aluminum or if you're looking for guidance on how to achieve certifications like Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED), the Aluminum Association has you covered.