The center has awarded its third round of competitive research grants to six projects focused on energy efficiency in buildings, transportation, and behavior. The projects aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption through innovative approaches such as design optimization, policy analysis, and behavioral interventions.
The US Department of Energy has awarded $151 million in funding to 37 ambitious energy research projects. These projects aim to develop transformative innovations in energy storage, biofuels, carbon capture, renewable power, building efficiency, vehicles, and other energy technology areas.
Scott Anderson of Palm Beach, Fla., and his team won the 2009 ConocoPhillips Energy Prize with their ECO-Auger, a hydrokinetic machine harnessing tidal currents for renewable electric energy. The prize recognizes innovative ideas to create a more secure energy future.
Stanford University researchers propose that transitioning to renewable energy could reduce global power demand by 30%, making it cheaper than fossil fuels or nuclear energy. The study finds that wind, water, and solar energy can meet the world's power demands with minimal land area required.
Wealthier countries use less energy in buildings due to rating systems, but design challenges remain. Implementing similar programs can create 'green' jobs in the US, according to a new RAND Corporation study.
Marine renewable energy devices can boost local biodiversity and benefit marine environments by attracting marine organisms to man-made structures, creating 'artificial reefs'. However, such devices also pose negative environmental impacts from habitat loss, collision risks, noise, and electromagnetic fields.
Researchers from the Technical University of Munich are developing a new brewing process that uses zeolite storage systems to add heat and reduce energy consumption. The system aims to save up to 20% in energy costs, making it a more sustainable option for breweries.
Wind energy could account for 30% of Spain's overall energy production by 2030, according to a study. The proposal also suggests a mix of solar energy and gas turbines to achieve this goal, while reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, the sector has generated 226% more jobs in the European Union since 2003.
A new study suggests that transitioning to renewable energy sources like wind and solar could eliminate 130 worker deaths annually. The researchers found that these industries pose significantly less risk of workplace injury and death compared to traditional fossil fuel industries.
Louisiana Tech University has received $1.4M from the US Department of Energy to support engineered systems meeting US energy needs through bio- , nano-, and geo-derived technologies. Dr. Long Que's NSF CAREER award will fund research on biomolecular nanophotonic devices for real-time monitoring and high-throughput drug screening.
The US Department of Energy has awarded $377 million to fund 46 new energy frontier research centers, aiming to accelerate scientific breakthroughs in clean and renewable energy. The centers will focus on advancing solar energy, biofuels, transportation, energy efficiency, and nuclear energy.
Researchers explore the mathematical underpinnings of PEM fuel cells, which convert hydrogen into electricity with only heat and water byproducts. The study's findings have significant implications for the development of sustainable energy solutions.
A new study in the International Journal of Exergy provides a formula to calculate wind turbine performance and optimize energy production. The formula offers a theoretical boost of 20% efficiency at varying wind speeds, reducing wasted energy by 80%.
High levels of brain energy are necessary for maintaining consciousness, according to Yale researchers. The study proposes that a conscious person requires a high level of brain energy, which supports human behavior and should be considered when interpreting fMRI signals.
The US Department of Energy has announced a $777 million initiative to fund 46 Energy Frontier Research Centers, including one at Caltech led by Harry Atwater. The center will focus on understanding light-material interactions for optimal solar energy conversion.
A new dark energy model proposes a cosmological phase transition, where the universe 'froze' about 11.5 billion years ago, causing it to expand at an ever-increasing rate. This theory attributes dark energy to a field dubbed quintessence, which acts as an antigravity agent and is spread uniformly throughout space.
Two Boston College physicists will lead a multi-university project to develop solid-state materials that transfer solar energy to electricity, with funding from the US Department of Energy. The project aims to reduce the cost of solar electricity generation and increase energy efficiency.
A new multi-million-dollar Energy Frontier Research Center announced by the White House will focus on understanding gas-liquid interactions at solid surfaces. This research has potential applications in developing more efficient batteries, solar and electrical energy conversion into fuel, improved fuel cells, and enhanced corrosion res...
The University of Texas at Austin is receiving $30 million in funding from the US Department of Energy to develop innovative nanomaterials for solar energy and batteries, as well as study the movement of greenhouse gases in geological systems. This funding will support research into new paradigms for achieving U.S. energy security.
The Arizona State University EFRC will pursue advanced research on solar energy conversion based on photosynthesis principles. The goal is to design a synthetic system that uses sunlight to convert water into hydrogen fuel and oxygen, providing a renewable source of clean energy.
The Department of Energy has established a new Energy Frontier Research Center at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to study catalysis for solar energy and fuel cells. The center will be led by chemist Morris Bullock and will focus on grand challenges in converting electrical energy into chemical bonds and back again.
Washington University and the Danforth Plant Science Center will be home to two new multimillion-dollar Energy Frontier Research Centers, pursuing advanced scientific research on energy. The centers aim to study forms of energy based on light harvesting and energy funneling.
A new MIT study finds that modern manufacturing processes are significantly less efficient in terms of energy and materials use compared to traditional industries. The research highlights the alarming levels of energy consumption by newer processes like microchip production, which uses up orders of magnitude more energy than making man...
A study by Henry Ford Health found that energy drink consumption increased blood pressure and heart rate in healthy adults. However, the effects could be particularly concerning for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, highlighting the need to avoid energy drinks.
A new laser-based technique has unraveled some of the inner workings of photosynthesis by capturing instantaneous images of energy transport between electrons in molecules. This allows scientists to gain a deeper understanding of the complex mechanisms involved, which is crucial for harnessing this process as an alternative energy source.
A national survey found that Americans are ready to reduce their energy use, with half having taken action and a substantial number planning to do so. The main barrier is financial cost, highlighting the need for innovative financing models.
Researchers develop a novel control method to mitigate wind speed variations by leveraging rotor inertia as energy storage. This approach reduces the need for external energy storage facilities, improving overall wind farm efficiency.
German scientists suggest biomass as a major source of energy, meeting global demand sustainably and economically. Afforestation on degraded land can produce enough biomass to replace fossil fuels, reducing CO2 emissions.
David A. Gonzales II wins ConocoPhillips Energy Prize for his innovative Layered MagWheel technology, increasing energy conversion and efficiency. The prize recognizes new ideas to improve energy development and use.
A study found that households experiencing energy insecurity are more likely to face food insecurity, leading to negative health outcomes, hospitalizations, and developmental risks in infants and toddlers. Researchers also emphasized the need for healthcare providers to consider household energy security when making treatment decisions.
Federation of American Scientists honors Mark D. Levine with the 2008 Public Service Award for his contributions to energy efficiency research, particularly in China. The award recognizes his work in building a strong energy program and promoting clean technology policies.
The NC State-led FREEDM ERC will develop technology to transform the nation's power grid into a smart grid that can store and distribute energy from renewable sources. This 'Internet for energy' system will enable millions of users to generate their own energy and sell excess back to the power companies.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory developed a way to produce plastic sheets containing billions of nanoantennas that collect heat energy generated by the sun. The technology has potential to be mass-produced on flexible materials, powering devices with higher efficiency than traditional solar cells.
A study found that frequent energy drink consumption is associated with increased risk of substance use, unsafe sexual activity, and other forms of risk-taking among college students. Energy drink consumption may serve as a screening indicator for identifying students at risk for problem behavior syndrome.
The newly established Solar Power Laboratory aims to advance solar energy research and development while improving the efficiency of solar electric power systems. Researchers will collaborate with industry partners to accelerate the expansion of Arizona's renewable energy economy.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed the first two standards for solid-state lighting in the US, detailing color specifications and test methods for LED lamps and light fixtures. These standards aim to significantly reduce energy consumption and improve color rendering.
The RAND Corporation study finds that biomass resources and wind power have the greatest potential to contribute towards reaching the 25 x '25 goal, with significant investments needed in renewable energy technology. Meeting this goal would reduce carbon dioxide emissions and lower long-term oil prices.
The University of Oklahoma's K20 Scholars program receives a $135,000 contribution from BP to support high school graduates pursuing energy-related degrees. The program offers four-year scholarships, service-learning projects, and research experiences, aiming to increase the number of students in science and engineering fields.
A study by University of Leeds engineers found that roasting energy crops using the torrefaction process can increase their energy content, reducing transportation costs and emissions. Willow emerged as the most favourable crop, retaining 86% of its mass and performing best in terms of energy yield.
Researchers discovered a new technique to visualize the electronic structure of pigment-protein complexes, enabling better understanding of how plants transfer energy. This breakthrough could lead to designing future experiments to study individual energy relaxation pathways in photosynthesis.
A symposium on energy research highlighted the need for transformational breakthroughs to meet future energy demands while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. Scientists discussed various renewable energy sources, including solar, nuclear power, hydrogen economy, and catalysis for transportation fuels.
Scientists at Maastricht University have discovered that mitochondrial uncoupling occurs naturally in human skeletal muscle cells when exposed to mild cold. This process can increase energy consumption, potentially leading to new obesity treatments. Further research is needed to identify the proteins responsible for uncoupling.
The MIT Energy Initiative has partnered with ABB to develop green technologies and improve energy efficiency. The five-year, $5-million partnership will support research in areas like nanofluids, power electronics, and intelligent robotics.
The MIT Energy Initiative has partnered with Eni to develop novel photovoltaic materials and design solar power plants. The five-year collaboration will focus on six areas of research, including nano-structured thin film photovoltaics and water splitting.
The new journal will link all aspects of the chemical sciences by publishing research on energy conversion and storage, alternative fuel technologies, and environmental science. Free access to previous content will be available following a simple registration process.
Researchers at Penn State are investigating thermochemical hydrogen production using advanced nuclear energy systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy independence. The three-year, $2.4 million program aims to develop efficient technologies for hydrogen production compatible with nuclear-generated heat sources.
A team of scientists has identified astrophysical objects with charged particles reaching Earth at high energies. The Pierre Auger Observatory in Argentina recorded the particles, which carry as much energy as a bullet or a tennis ball off Roger Federer's racket.
A study found that college students who consume alcohol mixed with energy drinks are twice as likely to be hurt, require medical attention, or ride with an intoxicated driver compared to those who don't. The researchers also discovered that these students are more likely to take advantage of others sexually.
Penn State has launched a major research alliance with Chevron to develop advanced coal conversion and carbon dioxide management technologies. The partnership aims to promote energy innovation, train new generations of experts in energy, and educate the public about energy issues.
The University-National Park Energy Partnership Program has funded nearly 70 projects at over 30 national parks, saving energy bills and educating future energy professionals. Students conduct energy audits, data analysis, and implement renewable energy measures such as solar and wind turbines in historic sites.
The Lancet Series on Energy and Health highlights the critical link between energy and health, calling for global control of greenhouse gases and affordable technologies to reduce indoor air pollution. The series advocates for a low-carbon, low-energy transportation system and economic policies that mitigate harmful energy practices.
The Lancet Series on Energy and Health emphasizes the need for policies promoting clean energy access to improve public health and mitigate climate disruption. Key targets include universal access to modern fuels, electricity supply, and improved cooking stoves by 2015.
A life cycle assessment reveals that renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal have valid green credentials in electricity production. However, the efficiency of these systems is comparable only when considering the entire life cycle, not just materials production and running.
A study funded by ESRC found that community renewable energy projects are largely based in the countryside, revitalizing local economies and alleviating poverty. The projects generate energy renewably at a local level, involving wind turbines, solar panels, and shared heating systems.
Researchers found that opinions about new technologies are related to each other and can be influenced by the context. Promoting one energy source can affect others.
A national renewable portfolio standard (RPS) would create a level playing field for states by requiring utilities to use solar, wind and other renewable resources. The RPS would prevent price gouging and save money for consumers by preventing inconsistencies between state mandates.
A new £4.2 million research project at Imperial College London aims to develop renewable and cost-effective methods of producing hydrogen for fuel cells. The project will explore both biological and chemical solar-driven processes to achieve this goal.
A study by Berkeley Lab and UC Berkeley reveals that quantum mechanical effects enable nearly instantaneous energy transfer in photosynthesis. Quantum beats, coherent electronic oscillations, play a crucial role in the process.
Experts warn of energy insecurity's impact on US national security, driven by heavy oil and gas imports from hostile regions. The US needs to diversify its energy resources and invest in research and development to improve energy efficiency and reduce dependence on foreign sources.
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a new high-energy state in DNA that helps dissipate UV energy. The 'dark state', which can last for 10-150 picoseconds, is found in single nucleotides and dissolves energy through 10-50% of the time. This discovery may provide insights into DNA damage and repair mechanisms.