The enshittification of solar (and how to stop it)
7 hours ago
- #enshittification
- #renewables
- #solar-energy
- Bill McKibben's book 'Here Comes the Sun' highlights the exponential growth and benefits of solar energy, including efficiency improvements and cost reductions.
- Solar energy is not only becoming cheaper but also improving agricultural yields by providing shade and reducing water evaporation.
- The material requirements for solar energy are significantly lower compared to fossil fuels, and recycling technologies are making solar panels more sustainable.
- Despite the benefits, the fossil fuel industry is attempting to undermine solar energy through political and technological means, including potential enshittification of cleantech.
- Donald Trump and the fossil fuel industry are pushing narratives against renewables, but solar energy's affordability and compatibility with conservative values make it resilient.
- The fossil fuel industry may shift from opposing renewables to controlling them through technological chokepoints, similar to Big Tech's enshittification strategies.
- Solar energy's decentralized nature makes it difficult for rent-seekers to control, but enshittification risks remain in connected devices and infrastructure.
- The article warns of potential future scenarios where cleantech is enshittified by big corporations or foreign control, emphasizing the need for vigilance and proactive measures.