The NSF is providing $3 million to ASU to develop a doctoral program in energy and equip students with skills to address the energy challenges of the future. The Solar Utilization Network IGERT program will focus on four key research areas: biological conversion, photovoltaics, solar thermal, and sustainable policy.
A team of engineers at Washington University in St. Louis will receive $2 million to design a battery management system for lithium-ion batteries, guaranteeing their longevity and safety. The project aims to push the current technology to 100-percent efficiency while maintaining battery lifetime.
A USC-led team has developed an air-breathing battery that uses iron plates and oxygen to store energy, reducing energy loss by 4% and making it 10 times more efficient than previous models. The battery's capacity can store between 8-24 hours' worth of energy, with the potential to help California transition to renewable energy sources.
Theoretical physicist Dima Shepelyansky found that energy flows from large to small scales can be prevented under specific conditions, similar to the way electron currents are stopped in disordered solids. This discovery links chaos theory and turbulence, highlighting a phenomenon where energy threshold plays a crucial role.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that hunter-gatherers, such as the Hadza tribe, expend a similar amount of energy daily as Western adults, contradicting the long-held assumption that their ancestors burned more calories. This similarity suggests that habitual metabolic rates are relatively constant among human populations.
Researchers explore dark energy's impact on the Universe's fate, citing a 'big rip' scenario as a possibility with predicted timelines for object destruction. The study uses the Ma-Zhang parameterization to forecast the evolution of the Universe.
Researchers from Drexel University have developed a novel electrochemical flow capacitor that combines the strengths of batteries and supercapacitors, addressing scalability issues. The technology allows for rapid charging and discharging ability, enabling efficient storage and delivery of renewable energy.
Researchers in the Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy analyze China's emerging energy trends, finding increased bioenergy utilization but still dispersed biomass resources. A study on cooking fuel transition suggests universal access to modern fuels could be achieved in urban areas by 2030 for a relatively low cost.
Researchers studied the binding and activation of water molecules in the catalytic site of photosystem II, a key step in converting sunlight into chemical energy. The study provides new insights into the ultra-efficient energy conversion process in nature and could inform the development of more efficient solar-energy technologies.
Iowa State University engineers are building a strong expertise in wind energy through various initiatives, including grants, research projects and partnerships. The goal is to increase wind energy production by at least 10 times over the next 18 years to reach 20% of electrical energy from wind by 2030.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a system that accurately predicts wave power, enabling devices to extract twice as much energy as currently possible. This breakthrough addresses key challenges in marine energy technology, including device durability and efficiency.
Yan Wang's new flow battery design has a 10-fold increase in energy density and 2.5 times the power density of conventional batteries, making it safer and more cost-effective. The technology will help address renewable energy's Achilles heel by storing and retrieving energy.
The Global Energy Assessment outlines 41 alternative sustainable energy pathways that offer viable, cost-effective choices for policy makers. The study finds that a rapid transformation to clean energy technologies is economically viable and can deliver clean energy to 1.4 billion people without increasing greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers at the University of Washington have discovered a new aspect of chemical reactions on metal oxide surfaces that could lead to more efficient energy systems. The new perspective proposes coupling electrons and protons, which could help reduce energy barriers in technologies such as solar cells and hydrogen fuel cells.
A new high-throughput method identifies promising electrocatalysts for water oxidation, enabling the efficient storage of solar energy. The technique uses ultraviolet light and a fluorescent paint to test metal-oxide electrocatalysts, accelerating the discovery process.
Researchers are working on a space-based solar power system that can beam energy back to Earth through microwaves or lasers, providing a constant delivery of solar energy. The project aims to target remote areas difficult to reach by traditional means, such as disaster zones or outlying regions.
A Yale University study found that most Americans are willing to pay a premium for electricity in support of a national clean-energy standard. The average U.S. citizen is willing to pay $162 per year in higher electricity bills to support an 80% clean energy goal by 2035, but support varies among different demographics.
The US approach to clean energy needs a reality check, according to Stanford researchers. Drs. Jeffrey Ball and Kassia Yanosek recommend driving down costs of key technologies and speeding up deployment to make renewable power economically viable. This will require targeted government policy and private sector investment.
A study analyzing data from 30 Chinese provinces found that energy consumption has a greater impact on output than labor, while pollution has little effect. China must implement effective environmental regulations to reduce pollution and energy consumption and bind economic growth with environmental protection.
A team of scientists at CU Denver has developed a novel energy system that increases the amount of energy harvested from microbial fuel cells by more than 70 times. This breakthrough improves energy efficiency and enables active extractions of electrons from bacteria.
A recent report from PNNL estimates that US commercial building owners could save an average of 38% on their heating and cooling bills by installing a handful of energy efficiency controls. The estimated savings range from 28% to 67% depending on local climate and energy prices.
The University of Minnesota has developed an innovative isothermal compressed air energy storage (CAES) technology, licensed to SustainX. This solution can stabilize renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, making them more predictable and reliable.
SMU's David Blackwell presented on nationwide geothermal energy opportunities, highlighting unconventional techniques as a game changer for US energy policy. The presentation revealed vast geothermal resources across the US, accessible via current technology, and demonstrated synergy with the oil and gas industry.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a method to store electrical energy as chemical energy in higher alcohols, which can be used as liquid transportation fuels. They genetically engineered a microorganism to produce isobutanol and 3-methyl-1-butanol using carbon dioxide and electricity.
Seven Stanford research teams will receive funding from the Global Climate and Energy Project to develop new energy technologies that can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. The projects include all-carbon solar cells, soot-free diesel combustion, hydrogen production from glucose, and more.
A new study suggests that climate change could impact Antarctic fur seals in their first few months of life by altering energy budgets. The research found that as pups get older, less energy is available for growth and development.
A new online resource, Energy Harvesting Open Access Data Repository, provides detailed data on energy availability and characteristics for researchers worldwide. The repository aims to standardize the evaluation of energy-harvesting devices and systems by offering a common dataset.
Researchers at the National Physical Laboratory have developed a new model for piezoelectric energy harvesters that can convert up to 25% more energy from unwanted mechanical vibrations. The new design covers only two-thirds of the cantilever's length, reducing internal power loss and increasing overall efficiency.
Energy efficiency experts propose a new EU target of a 40% reduction in primary energy demand by 2050, arguing that radically improving building efficiency is crucial for reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed target aligns with the ambitions of the new Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new family of liquid salt electrolytes called MetILs, which could lead to batteries storing three times more energy than today's batteries. The breakthrough may help integrate large-scale intermittent renewable energy sources into the nation's electric grid.
A UC Riverside researcher has received a $385,000 grant to evaluate the efficiency of HVAC motors in buildings through on-site testing and a new motor testing facility. The study aims to measure energy use under actual operating conditions and assess software used by architects and engineers designing HVAC systems.
The US Department of Energy is launching a new energy innovation hub focused on advanced battery research. The hub aims to accelerate the development of electrochemical energy storage technologies for transportation and the electric grid, with the goal of reducing the nation's dependence on foreign oil.
A new study by Columbia Engineering estimates average annual energy use for every building in NYC, providing an interactive web map that shows energy type, purpose, and quantity. This information will enable building owners to compare their consumption with the average and explore possibilities of sharing resources and infrastructure.
A new NASA study finds that Earth's energy budget remained out of balance despite unusually low solar activity between 2005 and 2010. The planet continued to absorb more energy than it returned to space, with carbon dioxide levels needing to be reduced to restore equilibrium.
Concordia University has launched the world's first Solar Simulator-Environmental Chamber, a unique laboratory that will revolutionize solar energy applications and building standards. The chamber is part of the NSERC Smart Net-Zero Energy Buildings Strategic Network, which aims to increase the use of net-zero energy buildings in Canada.
A new study by Duke University and Georgia Tech researchers found that energy efficiency and renewable energy can work together to meet projected growth in the South. The study debunks six common myths about clean energy, including those that claim it cannot meet demand or will increase electricity rates.
Energy storage device efficiency metrics need standardization, according to Drexel University researcher Dr. Yury Gogotsi. The current Ragone plot method may not provide a complete picture of device capability, and other metrics such as cycle lifetime, energy efficiency, and self-discharge must also be reported.
Pitt researchers are working on a new method to produce solar cells with higher energy efficiency rates using Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy. The goal is to create plastic solar cells that can be used to charge devices simply by stepping into sunlight, reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainable energy.
The NCAR wind forecasting system has improved the accuracy of wind energy forecasts by 35%, allowing Xcel Energy to harness wind more effectively and save ratepayers millions of dollars yearly. The system uses cutting-edge computer models and real-time observations to provide high-resolution forecasts, updated every 15 minutes.
Researchers at MIT's Alcator C-Mod experiment have found a novel connection between spontaneous plasma rotation and global energy confinement. At low density, the two phenomena are positively correlated, but at higher densities, they become inversely related, with rotation reversal leading to saturated energy confinement.
A study led by the University at Buffalo reveals that even 'relaxed' systems can exhibit distinct hot and cold spots due to large energy fluctuations. The research raises questions about how energy travels through structures like DNA and the open ocean.
The University of Miami Industrial Assessment Center has received a $1 million grant from the US Department of Energy to conduct industrial assessments and provide training to engineering students. The program aims to help small and medium-sized manufacturers reduce their energy consumption, save money, and increase productivity.
The University of Missouri Industrial Assessment Center (MoIAC) helps regional companies save $80,000 annually through free energy assessments and training. The center's new grant will educate over 400 students in energy conservation and efficiency, preparing them for leadership roles.
Researchers have discovered a way to create molecular 'circuitry' that can capture, direct, regulate and amplify raw solar energy. By leveraging the collective quantum properties of natural light-harvesting systems, scientists can design efficient antennas that transfer energy quickly and regulatedly.
Researchers have identified key areas for improving artificial photosynthesis, including developing chromophores with large absorption strengths and studying the role of quantum coherence. The goal is to create an efficient and sustainable energy source that can be produced on a commercial scale within the next 20 years.
Researchers propose molecular circuitry design inspired by natural light-harvesting systems to capture and utilize sunlight efficiently. Natural photosynthesis provides a model for efficient energy storage and transfer, enabling the development of sophisticated energy grids.
The Global Climate and Energy Project (GCEP) is awarding $3.5 million to researchers at five universities to develop new technologies for advanced grid energy storage. The initiatives focus on high-efficiency electrochemical storage systems, solid oxide flow batteries, and low-cost flywheels.
Iowa State University will lead a five-year project to build the state's research capacity in renewable energy and energy efficiency, supported by a $20 million NSF grant. The program aims to establish Iowa as a leader in transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
Researchers at NIST and Clemson University measured the energy of highly charged ion impacts on thin film surfaces, revealing that 27% of the remaining energy goes into changing the material's shape. This study aims to improve predictive models for surface damage and erosion in various industries, including fusion reactors.
A new energy-harvesting technology, reverse electrowetting, converts human motion into electrical power to power mobile electronic devices. This technology could enable footwear-embedded energy harvesters that capture energy produced by humans during walking and convert it into up to 20 watts of electrical power.
ASU is leading a $18.5 million national research center to accelerate commercialization of solar energy technologies and expand education in energy engineering. The center aims to increase the efficiency of photovoltaic devices for widespread energy distribution.
Researchers at Boston College have developed a designer metamaterial that can engineer emitted 'blackbody' radiation with an efficiency beyond natural limits, opening doors for innovative energy harvesting applications. The material's ability to control emissivity could further enhance energy conversion efficiency.
Researchers have developed a mathematical framework that can turn road vibrations and airport runway noise into electrical energy. By altering the shape of grain-to-grain contact areas between particles, it is possible to change how energy moves, allowing for controllable energy channeling.
A study of 40 fast-food and sit-down restaurants found that overall stated calories were accurate, but individual foods had significant inaccuracies. Foods with lower calorie contents were often understated, while those with higher calorie contents were overstated.
Scientists have developed a technique to capture and convert ambient electromagnetic energy into usable power, which can be used to operate wireless sensors and microprocessors. The technology has the potential to provide a new source of energy for various applications, including airport security and industrial monitoring.
ConocoPhillips is donating $1 million to the University of Houston's Energy Research Park, a comprehensive research facility for the energy industry. The gift will support the university's vision for a world-class petroleum engineering department.
Researchers at the University of East Anglia argue that greater focus on the energy requirements of the water sector is crucial for meeting sustainability goals. The study highlights the need to integrate energy use into water resource management and understand its role in greenhouse gas emissions.
Frequent energy drink consumption is linked to binge drinking and misuse of prescription drugs among musicians. The study found that 94% of surveyed musicians used caffeine, and those who consumed energy drinks reported significantly more substance use issues than non-users.
A Rutgers study finds that factors such as ecological degradation and trust in energy facilities play a significant role in shaping public preferences for coal and nuclear energy. The research suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach to energy policy is unlikely to succeed, highlighting the need for a comprehensive strategy addressin...
Researchers at the University of Washington have created a system called EnergJ that reduces energy consumption in simulations by up to 50 percent. The system has the potential to cut energy by as much as 90 percent and could be used in various applications such as streaming audio and video, games, and real-time image recognition.