UTA researchers are working on developing machine-learning models to predict real-time energy demand and manage smart grid systems. The goal is to create a dynamic decision analytics and optimization framework that enables a highly efficient, real-time energy management system.
Researchers developed a hybrid solar energy converter that generates both electricity and thermal energy with high efficiency and low cost, enabling zero-net-energy development and greenhouse-gas-free operations. The system demonstrated 85.1% efficiency and is projected to have a system levelized cost of 3 cents per kilowatt hour.
Researchers found that transitioning to renewable energy technologies has high energy return on investment (EROI) values, making it a worthwhile transition. The study analyzed dozens of studies on wind and solar renewables in regions with high solar and/or wind resources.
The article emphasizes the importance of climate resilience in urban energy systems to address climate change and extreme events. Nik and colleagues provide an overview of current progress in adapting urban energy systems to climate change, highlighting limitations in existing approaches.
A team of scientists investigated the structure and function of a key protein called IsiA in cyanobacteria. They found that IsiA acts as an energy harvester and donor, transferring captured energy to the trimeric core of PSI. The study provides important insights into photosynthetic energy transfer mechanisms.
Researchers develop new type of cathode with high specific capacity and large energy density using interface strain engineering in a 2D graphene nanomaterial. The work showcases a promising strategy to utilize strain engineering for advanced energy storage applications.
The study demonstrates that solar assisted heating networks can reduce environmental impact by up to 89.3% compared to traditional heat generation methods, while also providing economic benefits through cost reduction of up to 66%. The system is most effective in larger communities, with a return on investment within 13.7 years.
A new Yale-led study finds that a decline in green energy spending during the global crisis could outweigh the short-term environmental benefits of reduced carbon emissions and local air pollution. The economic downturn may lead to a significant setback in clean energy innovation, with potential impacts on human health.
Sean Shaheen, associate professor at University of Colorado Boulder, takes over as new editor-in-chief of Journal of Photonics for Energy in July 2020. He aims to publish emerging science and technology concepts in photonics for renewable energy harvesting and applications.
A new study in Nature reveals a process that allows molecules to guide scientists on how to modify them for better solar energy absorption and conversion. By mimicking the energy conversion systems found in nature, researchers aim to develop more abundant, scalable materials for solar energy technology.
Scientists have designed a gold nanoparticle conjugate that can be used as a platform for developing a light-driven, water-splitting nanodevice for generating hydrogen. The PSI-GNP-PSII conjugate mimics photosynthesis to convert solar energy into chemical energy, offering a potential solution to the current energy crisis.
Researchers at the University of Michigan and Purdue University have developed a method to measure electron energy distributions in metal nanostructures, which could lead to more efficient energy conversion and storage applications. The technique uses surface plasmons to give extra energy to charge carriers, enabling faster reactions.
Using simulated silicon neurons, researchers found that energy constraints can lead to a dynamic, at-a-distance communication protocol more robust and energy-efficient than traditional computer processors. This protocol enables computing on a secondary network of spikes, allowing for efficient communication and processing.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a technique to analyze the energies of 'hot' electrons, which could lead to more efficient energy conversion in solar panels and other applications. The method uses a scanning tunneling microscope integrated with lasers and optical components.
A study by Jacek Kapica identifies three indicators to help find the perfect size for renewable wind and solar energy storage facilities while optimizing energy harvesting. Increasing power reliability influences the nominal power of energy generation units at a given size of storage.
A new study by the University of Córdoba and Trinity College Dublin finds that recovering energy from water distribution networks can save 12.8% of energy annually. This emerging technology uses pumps as turbines to generate electricity, reducing carbon footprint and financial burden on farmers.
Three community-based organizations, Mee Panyar from Myanmar, Solar Freeze from Kenya, and Takataka Plastics from Uganda, have won the first Stanford Global Energy Heroes prizes. They will receive $20,000 and a trip to Stanford for the Global Energy Forum. The organizations are working on projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions a...
Researchers at Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute develop a new three-layer composite using carbon nanotubes, PANI, and hydrothermal carbon that demonstrates remarkable rate-capability at high energy densities.
Researchers have discovered that single molecular nanowires outperform bundles in transporting energy with minimal losses. Coherence, which enables delocalized energy movement across multiple molecules, is lost in bundled fibers due to strain, hindering efficient energy transfer.
Researchers found that price increases rarely impact short-term energy consumption, but have a significant effect after about five years. The study developed two scenarios for future development: E-POL and CLI, which focus on increasing electricity use and reducing greenhouse gas emissions through energy-efficient technologies.
A new study found that telecommuting may have limited energy savings due to increased travel for recreation and other purposes. Studies with more rigorous methodologies showed less clear-cut results, highlighting the complexity of modern work patterns.
Researchers have developed a metal-air scavenger that provides power by breaking chemical bonds in metal surfaces, outperforming batteries and harvesters. The technology has 10 times more power density than the best energy harvesters and 13 times more energy density than lithium-ion batteries.
QUT researchers have designed a new carbon nanostructure made from diamond nanothreads that can store mechanical energy when twisted or stretched. The structure has an energy density 4-5 orders higher than conventional steel springs and up to 3 times compared to Li-ion batteries.
Scientists have discovered that more energy can be stored by charging less frequently, but right up to 100%. The study found that dividing the storage system into compartments increases energy storage. This discovery may revolutionize electric car battery technology and lead to significant increases in capacity.
An international team of scientists has proposed a method to design climate-resilient energy systems. The study found that urban areas are expected to hold more than two-thirds of the world's population by 2050, and distributed energy systems will play a vital role in climate change adaptation and mitigation.
A study by New York University researchers found that mandatory building energy audits led to modest reductions in energy use, but not enough to meet citywide carbon-reduction goals. The results suggest that a more comprehensive data-driven energy policy is needed to encourage significant energy efficiency investments.
A study led by University of Leeds found that energy use and fossil fuels do not contribute significantly to increases in life expectancy. Instead, growth in national income and improving healthcare systems play a more crucial role.
Over 2000 renewable energy facilities are built in biodiverse areas, posing a significant threat to plant and animal species globally. The research team urges governments and industries to reconsider locations and prioritize biodiversity conservation.
A new study examines energy inequality across 86 countries, revealing extreme disparities in energy footprints and consumption patterns. The research shows that the top 10% of consumers consume roughly 20 times more energy than the bottom 10%, with significant inequalities in transport, heating, and electricity.
A study on US public perceptions of energy mixes found that most participants underestimated oil and gas contributions and overestimated wind and solar energy. Participants showed a strong preference for a steep increase in solar and wind energy and a decrease in fossil fuels by 2050.
The Collaborative Water-Energy Research Center (CoWERC) aims to reduce energy needed for desalination, improve water recovery and support safe water reuse through research, development and commercialization of new technologies. CoWERC will enable the creation of energy-water systems that could be implemented worldwide.
A new study reveals energy development has negative impacts on sage-grouse reproduction, affecting their ability to nest and raise chicks. The study's findings emphasize the importance of preserving sagebrush habitats when positioning renewable and non-renewable energy projects to balance species conservation with energy demands.
A comprehensive analysis by Northwestern University and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that data center energy use has remained roughly flat over the past decade, despite increasing demand for data. The researchers made strategic policy recommendations to manage future growth in energy use.
A new method predicts how extreme climate events affect energy systems with a focus on renewable energy sources. Future climate events can have a considerable impact, leading to power supply reliability reductions of up to 16%. Collaboration between energy system experts and climate researchers is necessary for optimization.
Researchers found that seasonal pumped hydropower storage has considerable potential for highly competitive energy storage costs, with estimated global energy storage potential of 17.3 PWh. The study also addresses environmental concerns related to traditional hydropower plants, suggesting a more sustainable solution for renewable ener...
Scientists at Tokyo University of Science have developed a novel technology to measure thermal energy conversion efficiency. This innovation can shed light on the processes of energy-converting systems like leaves during photosynthesis, improving the understanding of energy transfer in plants and solar cells.
By combining pump-probe measurements with theoretical simulations, researchers can now observe the energy flow in acetone at a key energy window between closely related states. This synergy of experimental and theoretical methods provides new insights into light-matter interactions and molecular dynamics.
A new study models the potential of semitransparent organic solar cells to power greenhouses, finding that many can become energy neutral in warm or temperate climates. The technology allows greenhouses to generate energy from unused light while minimizing impact on plant growth.
A study at Flinders University in Australia found that a form of cognitive incentive retraining can help regular consumers of energy drinks reduce their consumption. The training aimed to tackle attentional and approach biases towards energy drinks, helping participants moderate their bias towards choosing healthier options.
Scientists from Cornell University and Brookhaven National Laboratory successfully demonstrated the world's first capture and reuse of energy in a multi-turn particle accelerator. The Energy Recovery Linear accelerator (ERL) technology uses two transformational 'green' technologies to recover and re-use previously accelerated particles...
Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a stacked nanocarbon antenna that makes europium shine brighter than previous designs, with potential to create more efficient photosensitizers. The new design uses low-energy blue light absorption, reducing energy loss and enabling photodynamic therapy applications.
A new AI-powered method predicts building energy consumption by analyzing environmental and operational parameters, offering a significant improvement in energy management. The hybrid deep learning model has the potential to be applied in various smart buildings and cities.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a computer simulation to compare energy use on similar weather days, helping utility companies and homeowners determine potential energy cost savings. The team also created a geothermal energy storage system that reduces peak electricity demand up to 37% in homes while balancing gr...
Researchers discovered that Asian black bears exhibit a twin-peak pattern of daily energy balance, peaking in spring and autumn. The study found that the bears obtain most of their energy by eating acorns in autumn.
The Stanford report outlines a roadmap for 143 countries to transition to 100% clean, renewable energy by 2050, reducing worldwide energy needs by 57%, creating 28.6 million jobs, and saving 91% on energy, health, and climate costs. The plan requires an initial investment of $73 trillion but pays for itself over time through energy sales.
A new model of animal energy budgets reveals that resource variation is a key mechanism driving evolutionary body size. By considering factors such as metabolism, reproduction costs, and offspring energy delivery, the model shows that larger bodies provide more room for energy storage, helping animals survive uncertain environments.
The University of Texas at Austin is launching a unique initiative to make itself a national hub for geothermal energy expertise and startups. The new Geothermal Entrepreneurship Organization will leverage existing expertise in geosystems and drilling engineering to develop technologies and launch companies.
Engineers at Lehigh University have mapped the energy transport mechanism of chalcogenide perovskite, a promising material for solar energy generation. The research demonstrates tunability, essential for its potential applications.
Expert survey reveals conflict between renewable energy and bat protection, with most stakeholders agreeing that ecosystem sustainability is crucial. Possible solutions include accepting reduced wind turbine efficiency to compensate for shutdown times and prioritizing bat conservation over green electricity production.
A survey of stakeholders in the wind energy field reveals a consensus on prioritizing biodiversity protection over climate change concerns. Stakeholders agree that measures to make wind energy production ecologically sustainable should be taken, with most suggesting increased research and improved efficiency.
The US Department of Energy has awarded approximately $80 million over three years to strengthen the nation's energy infrastructure. The funding aims to bolster the reliability and resilience of energy systems through various projects, including malware detection and advanced sensors and data analytics.
Researchers say nanomaterials hold the key to improving energy storage technology, which is crucial for integrating renewable energy sources into the grid. The technology can help stabilize energy supply and demand, making it possible to manage intermittent energy generation from solar and wind power.
A nationwide study led by University of Wisconsin Oshkosh researcher Jeremiah Bohr finds that high energy bills can force households to reduce spending on necessities, leading to increased risk of poverty. The study emphasizes the importance of energy assistance and efficiency for low-income households.
Scientists have found a way to harness excess energy from photons that are too energetic for materials to absorb, potentially increasing the efficiency of solar panels. By combining a perovskite with an acceptor material, hot electrons can be readily absorbed, even without slowing down their loss of energy.
Researchers propose MGES technology for long-term energy storage using mountains, filling a gap in the market for smaller locations. Sand or gravel is transported from bottom to top, storing potential energy, which can be reused and generates electricity.
Researchers identify three grand challenges in wind energy research: understanding wind resources, addressing turbine and system dynamics, and designing wind plants for grid reliability. Addressing these challenges is crucial for advancing the state of the art in wind plant energy output.
The study uses a unique processing technique to create a polymer film capacitor with record-high energy density, promising a step change in the field of dielectric capacitors. This innovation could enable efficient and low-cost electric energy storage systems for intermittent renewable energy sources.
The Department of Energy announces private-public awards to advance fusion energy technology through the Innovation Network for Fusion Energy program INFUSE. The funded projects will provide companies with access to DOE's national laboratories to overcome critical scientific and technological hurdles in pursuing fusion energy systems.
A new study published in Bioresource Technology Reports examines the impact of biomass preprocessing on conversion efficiency. Researchers found that comminution and particle size play a significant role in determining energy expenditure, with miscanthus showing improved efficiency under certain conditions.
The U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory has received $1.19 million in funding for five projects related to quantum information science (QIS). Researchers will develop ultra-sensitive detectors to detect dark matter and simulate fundamental theories on a quantum computer.