Coronavirus and the great electric-battery dividend

(EurActiv, 22 Jun 2020) The global health pandemic has dealt a body blow to many areas of the economy but the battery industry looks set to reap significant rewards, even if it will also have to put up with a short-term slump in demand.

Coronavirus lockdown measures, changing habits and shifting investments have altered the course of energy and transport policy, not just in Europe but worldwide, as governments mull the best way to shore up their economies in the wake of the pandemic.

Investments in traditionally safe projects like coal power plants are starting to fall apart as investors see the long-term and low-risk payoffs of sectors like renewable power generation as the more attractive option.

One of the worst-hit areas is the auto industry, which was already bracing to absorb lower sales figures this year even before the virus outbreak hit. Some of the bigger firms have applied for financial assistance to cushion the blow.

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EurActiv, 22 Jun 2020: Coronavirus and the great electric-battery dividend