Research on clean and renewable energy. Covers 3D-printed energy storage, fossil-fuel transition, affordable renewable power, and battery innovation.
The state of Georgia could dramatically reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by using onsite electric power, creating new jobs and a healthier public. CHP systems can be 85-90% efficient, reducing peak demand on the grid and providing ultra-high system efficiencies, cleaner air, and more affordable energy.
A team of researchers explored the possibility of producing hydrogen from offshore wind in China and delivering it to Japan at a cost competitive with the country's future projections. The study found that Chinese-produced hydrogen could supply Japan's net-zero transition needs by 2030, even under a high-cost scenario.
Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a new extraction agent that outperforms current industry standards, enabling efficient separation of rare-earth elements. The technology uses diglycolamide ligands and can separate individual REEs in multiple stages.
By 2050, renewable electricity is expected to become the cheapest form of energy globally, accounting for up to three-quarters of all demand. This shift can be achieved through accelerated electrification of industries, such as steel production and transportation, which can reduce energy consumption and lower carbon intensity.
Researchers used AI to optimize multiple properties of flow batteries, finding molecules that store a lot of energy and remain stable. The study uses quantum chemistry-guided multiobjective Bayesian optimization to identify promising candidates.
A combined experimental and computational study published in Nature Catalysis introduces a new class of complex metal hydride catalysts that can synthesise ammonia at temperatures as low as 300°C and pressures as low as 1 bar. These catalysts have the potential to pave the way for more sustainable means of ammonia production.
Perovskite materials have emerged as promising alternatives to crystalline silicon for producing solar panels. Despite defects that reduce performance, perovskites show impressive efficiency levels comparable to silicon alternatives. Researchers used multimodal microscopy methods to visualize and explain the complex interactions betwee...
Researchers have achieved a new benchmark in designing atomically thin solar cells made of semiconducting perovskites. Sunlight effectively shrinks the space between atomic layers, improving photovoltaic efficiency by up to 18%. This breakthrough addresses stability concerns and offers significant implications for studying excited stat...
A new study found that research and development on chemistry and materials science were key factors behind the significant cost decline of lithium-ion batteries. The analysis revealed that over 50% of the cost reduction came from R&D activities, with chemistry and materials research being the primary contributors.
The Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Management of UK Marine Resources (SuMMeR CDT) will train 50 interdisciplinary PhD students to sustainably manage the UK's coasts and seas. The program focuses on subjects ranging from marine sciences to law, health, education, and economics.
Researchers developed a nickel-cobalt metal dimer on nitrogen-doped carbon that can catalyze electrolysis under both acidic and basic conditions. The new system exhibits comparable overvoltage to commercial Pt-based catalysts and shows significant activity enhancements compared to individual single-atom catalysts.
A comprehensive assessment of polyurethane in the US reveals complexities that affect its recovery and recycling. The study highlights opportunities to enhance circularity and increase bio-based content of polyurethanes.
Researchers found that bigger connections between the two grids can increase transmission capacity and provide significant value through sharing generation resources and flexibility across regions. The study suggests that a macrogrid could pay for itself in three primary ways: by helping different parts of the country meet their peak d...
Researchers at Linköping University have developed a concept for large-scale energy storage that is safe, cheap and sustainable. The technology uses wood-based electrodes and a new type of water-based electrolyte, achieving a world record for energy storage with organic electrodes in water-based electrolytes.
An international research team led by Jennifer L. Schaefer has analyzed the potential of magnesium-ion-conducting solid polymer electrolytes in two separate battery systems. The study found that these electrolytes exhibit higher thermal, mechanical, and electrochemical stability compared to traditional liquid electrolytes, making them ...
Researchers from Australian National University warn that Australia's hydrogen strategy lacks distinction between green and blue hydrogen, which could increase emissions. Large-scale investment in fossil fuel-based hydrogen with carbon capture technology may be risky due to substantial fugitive emissions.
Researchers developed a molecular compound that serves as a low-cost electrolyte for redox flow batteries, enabling stable operation and high capacity retention. The compound overcomes limitations of previous electrolytes by increasing its hydrophilicity and conductivity.
A research team discovered a quantum confinement effect in a 3D-ordered macroporous structure of BiVO4, enabling hydrogen production under visible light. The study found that the 3DOM structure had higher photocatalysis efficiency and produced more oxygen than its plate-like counterpart.
Researchers at the University of Rochester develop a computational V2G model that accounts for factors not previously considered, showing potential savings of $120-$150 per year for vehicle owners. The model uses data from the US Census Bureau and calculates battery degradation costs based on various variables.
Researchers found that a battery's chemistry can affect its environmental impact, with cobalt being a common material that requires more energy to mine and has negative effects on the environment. Replacing cobalt with nickel can alleviate concerns, but there are tradeoffs involved. The study suggests that reusing batteries before recy...
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a plant that can produce carbon-neutral liquid fuels from sunlight and air. The technology has been tested successfully and is now mature enough for industrial applications.
Researchers at California State Polytechnic University use catalytic pyrolysis to upcycle plastic waste into a valuable fuel source. The process converts primary organic waste into a sustainable fuel or other valuable chemicals.
Researchers found that combining resource diversification, excess generation, building efficiency, and demand flexibility can reduce or eliminate long-duration energy storage in some regions. This approach enables the achievability of a fully renewable system with technology building blocks accessible today.
The Global Carbon Project predicts an increase of 4.9% in global carbon emissions in 2021, with fossil carbon emissions set to grow more than they fell in 2020. The report highlights the need for immediate global action on climate change as world leaders meet at COP26 in Glasgow.
The new Atlantic Marine Energy Center, led by UNH, will focus on wave and tidal energy conversion, as well as ocean sensing and aquaculture. The center aims to advance marine renewable energy technologies through research, education, and outreach.
New research suggests tidal stream power can provide 11% of the UK's current annual electricity demand, with potential environmental impact comparable to climate change. To achieve this, around 11.5 GW of tidal stream turbine capacity is required, with major grid infrastructure needed for development.
Researchers found that incorporating energy efficiency measures can minimize long-duration storage, reducing the need for renewable resources. By optimizing mix of renewables, oversized generation capacities, and energy efficiency investments, achieving 100% renewable energy becomes more achievable and cost-effective.
Scientists from University of Technology Sydney developed energy-related carbon budgets for 12 main industry sectors, showing that it's still possible to limit global warming to 1.5C with timely climate action. The research provides sector-specific emission targets and a holistic model for decarbonization pathways.
Researchers develop a more accurate mathematical model to predict solar cell output power, considering degradation and external factors. The new model will aid policymakers in making informed decisions on solar power installations.
Scientists at Cornell University have developed a method to optimize turbine spacing in offshore wind farms, reducing wake effects and increasing power production. The research aims to support the rapid expansion of offshore wind energy in the US and Europe, with potential to generate over 7,000 terawatt hours per year.
Participants preferred policies that used incentives to encourage eco-friendly choices, particularly when they targeted businesses. In contrast, policies that focused on energy alternatives and used incentives were also supported. The researchers found that policy support was influenced by the type of change targeted, who was targeted,...
The University of Surrey has published a paper outlining its plan to reduce absolute carbon emissions by 46% over the next decade and achieve Net-Zero. The paper provides guidance on how other universities can apply the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and offers ideas for financing emission reduction pathways.
Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed innovative technologies in self-healing sealants, precision deicers and quantum-enabled grid security. These breakthroughs aim to improve construction materials, reduce waste in road maintenance and enhance power grid protection.
Researchers found four main drivers of CO2 reduction: subsidised renewable investment, regulation-driven coal closure, rising carbon prices, and energy efficiency measures. Building renewable sources and setting a stronger carbon price were key contributors to the UK's success in reducing emissions.
A new model suggests that integrating massive offshore wind generation, power storage, electric vehicles, green hydrogen production, and expanded transmission can reduce costs of renewable power integration into the grid. This strategy could make achieving China's carbon neutrality by 2050 feasible without significantly increasing costs.
Researchers have developed a flexible triboelectric nanogenerator that mimics the movement of seaweed to efficiently convert surface and underwater waves into electricity. The device has been shown to generate power even at low water pressures, making it suitable for powering marine sensors in coastal zones.
Researchers at NTU Singapore develop a method to encase algae protein in liquid droplets, tripling artificial photosynthesis efficiency and generating more energy. The technology has the potential to make solar cells more efficient and pave the way for sustainable energy production.
Researchers from Harvard and Tsinghua University found that solar energy could provide 43.2% of China's electricity demands in 2060 at less than two-and-a-half U.S. cents per kilowatt-hour. The study highlights a crucial energy transition point for China and other countries, where combined solar power and storage systems become a cheap...
A research team at Iowa State University aims to create more robust microbes that can produce heat- and acid-resistant enzymes, improving the bioproduction of fuels and chemicals. The goal is to make industrial fermentation more efficient and cost-effective.
Researchers find that most countries are not growing wind and solar power fast enough to meet global warming targets of 1.5°C or 2°C. The study analyzes data from 60 countries and finds that only a few countries, like Portugal and Ireland, have seen rapid growth in onshore wind and solar power.
A recent study from Lund University reveals that inadequate infrastructure hindered the adoption of electric cars in the early 20th century. Electric cars were cheaper to drive and emitted less CO2 than gasoline cars, but access to local electrical infrastructure was a major factor in their popularity.
Researchers developed a strategy to achieve ultra-high loading of single metal atom sites on cobalt oxide support, stabilizing Rh and other noble metals. The strained surface showed exceptional UOR activity and stability, requiring lower working voltage than commercial Pt and Rh catalysts.
A new study examines alternative scenarios and their potential impact on climate mitigation targets. The research suggests that retaining low-energy practices in lifestyle and business could reduce climate mitigation challenges, while missing these opportunities would lead to a more difficult energy transition.
Dr. Mohammad Al Hashmi's research focuses on reducing energy consumption in residential buildings in hot and arid climates using renewable energy systems such as solar and wind power. His framework combines building interventions and clean energy approaches to minimize environmental impact.
A new model, developed by Carnegie Mellon University researchers, identifies coal- and natural gas-fired electricity generation plants suitable for carbon capture technologies. The tool takes into account various factors like plant age, efficiency, location, and technology to explore optimal CO2 reduction strategies at an affordable cost.
Large-scale solar farms have a cooling effect on surrounding land, reducing temperature by up to 2.3°C at 100m away from the park boundaries. The study highlights the need for consideration in solar park design and location to minimize negative impacts.
Researchers believe that wind and hydropower are the most promising renewable energy sources in Russia, with suitable areas for installation identified. However, the transition to these energy sources has been slow due to reliance on fossil fuels and nuclear energy.
A new study by University of Utah researchers found that energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy investments had limited impact on reducing CO2 emissions. However, policies aimed at improving energy efficiency had no effect, while investment in renewable energy sources led to increased levels of CO2 emissions in the residen...
A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge has identified a key loss pathway in organic solar cells that reduces their efficiency. By manipulating molecules inside the solar cell, they found a way to suppress this pathway and potentially overcome the hurdle for organic solar cells to compete with silicon-based cells.
Researchers at West Virginia University have developed a solid oxide electrolysis cell that can produce high-purity green hydrogen from water. The technology has the potential to reduce carbon emissions in industrial applications, including manufacturing and power generation.
A UCLA-led team develops a breakthrough in microbial fuel cells by adding silver nanoparticles to bacteria, boosting electron transport efficiency and generating more electricity. The innovation could lead to practical applications of renewable energy from wastewater treatment.
Clean geothermal power could become as important as fossil fuels, with new technologies and repurposed oil and gas expertise crucial to its development. Industry leaders emphasize the need for collaboration between geothermal and oil and gas professionals.
Researchers have developed a novel electrode material based on cobalt and nickel that can efficiently produce hydrogen through water and urea electrolysis. The phosphorus-doped cobalt-nickel-sulfide nanoparticles demonstrate high activity and stability, reducing the overall voltage of the electrolysis cell.
A universal descriptor has been found to indicate the best electrolytes for organic redox flow batteries, reducing experimentation time. This breakthrough could speed up the development of new storage technologies, enabling grid-scale energy storage with a stable grid.
A European project developed standard solutions for energy refurbishment, considering various climate zones. These packages include prefabricated façades, decentralized ventilation systems, and smart ceiling fans to reduce energy consumption and improve comfort. Pilot sites showed significant savings and improvements in tenant well-being.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a synthetic diiron-containing porphyrin that can efficiently catalyze the conversion of radiant energy from the sun into chemical energy. This breakthrough has potential applications in creating non-fossil-based fuels and electrochemical cells for renewable energy storage.
A Swiss research team created a nanogenerator made from functionalized wood, generating 80 times more electricity than natural wood. The device can power household LED lamps and small electronic devices, demonstrating a potential sustainable energy source for smart buildings.
A study published by Sandia National Laboratories reveals that older solar farms are more susceptible to extreme weather events, while snowstorms have the highest impact on electricity production. Machine learning analysis also found that low sunlight levels due to cloud cover and geographical features of the farm are significant factors.
Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel electrocatalyst that can effectively produce hydrogen and oxygen from water at low cost. The catalyst, composed of transition metal phosphates, achieves high surface area and fast charge transfer, making it suitable for commercial on-site production of hydrogen.
A WVU-led research team will test the potential of geothermal energy by drilling three miles into the ground. The project aims to reduce carbon footprint and decrease energy costs for the university, with potential implications for industries across West Virginia.