The Future of Energy

Environmental concerns and long-term uncertainties surrounding fossil fuels are driving a business case for green energy.

After many starts and stops, Brazil is planning to revive its nuclear power program -- a choice that could open the way to the eventual development of atomic weapons.

The country is capitalizing on its solar power expertise to try to increase its influence abroad through the International Solar Alliance. But translating renewable energy into soft power will be no easy feat for New Delhi.

Traditional uses for copper, such as in electricity transmission and construction materials, will still dominate, even as electric vehicle use bumps up demand for the metal. This reality puts its suppliers in a complicated position.

Wood Mackenzie's forecast suggests the global transition away from fossil fuels may be progressing more rapidly than expected thanks to improving fuel efficiency and alternative vehicles.

China is bullish about ensuring control over the entire supply chain for lithium-ion batteries for years to come –- and even major shifts in technology might not dislodge Beijing from its pride of place.

The global shift toward renewable energy sources is already underway, and it will be no less transformative than the rise of coal or oil before it.

Argentina, Bolivia and Chile all stand atop massive reserves of lithium, but only one of them appears set to benefit from the much-desired metal.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other countries in the region want to use nuclear power to diversify their electrical grids. But the technology's declining economic competitiveness will limit ambitions to develop nuclear programs.

Beijing's solutions for tackling the country's social and economic problems could backfire if they do not produce tangible results.