A small tailoring cooperative in southern India uses refurbished EV batteries to overcome power cuts, showcasing a model for reducing clean energy waste.Sibi Arasu reports for The Associated Press.In short:Refurbished EV batteries provide stable electricity for tailors in rural India, allowing them to increase income and productivity.India faces a growing challenge of waste from solar panels, batteries and wind turbines, with experts urging a comprehensive recycling strategy.Companies like Nunam are developing circular solutions, aiming to reuse critical minerals and scale sustainable practices.Key quote:“The way EVs use these batteries is like asking it to run. Using it to power small machines and streetlights is like asking it to walk.”— Prithvi Raj Narendra, engineer at NunamWhy this matters:As clean energy infrastructure expands, India must balance growth with sustainability by addressing waste. Recycling and repurposing components can reduce environmental harm, create jobs and lessen dependency on imported minerals, supporting a truly circular economy.
Electric vehicle batteries find second life powering rural businesses
