Research on clean and renewable energy. Covers 3D-printed energy storage, fossil-fuel transition, affordable renewable power, and battery innovation.
Researchers have achieved a remarkable power conversion efficiency of over 16 percent for single-junction organic solar cells. The breakthrough is attributed to the use of a newly designed wide-bandgap polymer P2F-EHp with an appropriate HOMO energy level, which enables optimal morphology and complementary absorption profile.
Researcher Alex de Vries finds Bitcoin mining mechanism cannot be powered solely by renewable energy, citing variable hydroelectric production and significant electronic waste generation. Alternative 'proof-of-stake' mechanisms could reduce energy consumption by 99.99% and eliminate e-waste.
Researchers have developed a method to extract rare-earth elements from phosphogypsum mining waste, a potentially game-changing solution to alleviate the world's REE supply shortages. The use of microorganisms to dissolve the elements has shown promise as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional methods.
Researchers at NREL discovered a way to transform discarded plastics into high-quality composite materials, exhibiting twice the strength of petroleum-based FRPs. The process reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, offering a promising solution for boosting recycling efforts worldwide.
Researchers at NREL create a recycling process that upcycles PET plastic into high-value composite materials, reducing energy consumption by 57% and greenhouse gas emissions by 40%. The new material combines reclaimed PET with bio-based molecules to produce fiber-reinforced plastics.
Research led by University of East Anglia finds that policies supporting renewable energy and energy efficiency are helping reduce CO2 emissions in 18 developed economies. The study suggests that these efforts need to be expanded and enhanced to limit climate change.
Researchers from São Paulo and the UK presented advances in new battery development to address increasing demand for energy storage. Lithium-air batteries have great potential for use in transportation, power distribution networks, and can store energy for up to 24 hours at a low cost.
Researchers used X-rays to study lithium ion transport in batteries, revealing how fast charging causes lithium plating and reduces battery performance. The study aims to improve fast-charging technologies for electric vehicles.
Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a new approach to scheduling generators, addressing previous issues with cost minimization and reliability. The method uses timeslots to optimize individual periods in real-time, ensuring feasible solutions without power surplus or shortage.
A new open-access book presents two years of research on how to best tackle climate change, funded by the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation. The book provides a feasible roadmap for achieving and surpassing the targets set by the Paris Climate Agreement, indicating that goals are achievable with current technology.
A new centre for doctoral training in renewable energies will be established in North East England, aiming to develop sustainable power sources for smart devices and future transportation systems. Researchers will work on creating new materials and devices that can convert energy into power at the point of use.
The AFLEET Tool and its online version enable fleet managers to compare the costs and benefits of alternative fuels and vehicle technologies, optimizing their purchasing decisions. With over 8,000 users, the tool is based on Argonne's GREET model and provides a comprehensive and easier way to make informed decisions.
Researchers have developed a new catalyst that can efficiently split water molecules using nickel-based hydroxide and polyoxovanadate nanoclusters. The resulting material reduces the required overpotential for electrolysis, making it more efficient and potentially game-changing for renewable energy.
Researchers propose using compressed air storage in porous rock formations to meet UK's electricity needs during winter months, providing a viable option for steady and reliable renewable energy supplies. The approach aims to store enough compressed air to cover the UK's typical electricity demand for January and February.
Researchers Julie Renner and Mohan Sankaran have developed an electrolytic process with a plasma to create ammonia from nitrogen and water at low temperature and pressure. This process could lead to smaller, more localized ammonia plants powered by alternative energy.
The Lehigh University Energy Research Center is working to develop innovative solutions for managing traditional power plants and developing cost-effective alternative energy sources. The center, in partnership with the Mexican Institute for Electricity and Clean Energies, is studying the use of solar thermal energy to improve CO2 capt...
Researchers at ORNL created a lignin-nylon composite with improved printability and mechanical properties. The combination of lignin and nylon appears to have a lubrication or plasticizing effect on the composite, increasing room temperature stiffness while decreasing melt viscosity.
Researchers discovered a previously unexplored consequence of global wind energy proliferation: wake effects from upwind facilities that can reduce downwind neighbors' energy production. The study shows that these effects are measurable and predictable, with the largest impact occurring when winds are in a specific direction at night.
Researchers have developed a novel platinum-cobalt core-shell alloy catalyst that improves the utilization of platinum in fuel cells, enabling the use of smaller amounts of the costly precious metal. The new catalyst also enhances durability compared to previous technologies.
Two UT Austin engineers, Hal Alper and Alex Huang, have been selected as fellows in the prestigious National Academy of Inventors. Their research has led to significant innovations in biochemical engineering and power semiconductor device technology, resulting in seven U.S.-issued patents and technologies licensed to several companies.
A new low-cost catalyst made of copper, nickel and chromium enhances hydrogen production from water under neutral pH conditions. This breakthrough enables the use of renewable electricity to produce hydrogen, which can be stored for clean power on demand.
Global fossil fuel emissions are projected to reach a record high of over 37 billion tons in 2018, driven by growing energy demand and non-fossil source emissions. Renewables have largely come online as add-ons to fossil fuels, but more needs to be done for them to displace fossil fuels.
A new study reveals a significant decline in wind energy resources over the Northern Hemisphere, with 30-80% of stations losing wind power potential since 1979. Climate models are found to be inadequate in simulating long-term wind energy changes, underscoring the need for careful consideration when using GCM-based projections.
A new study finds that addressing climate change will lead to net job creation across industries by 2030. The construction, manufacturing, and renewables sectors are expected to drive job growth.
Researchers propose new storage system to deliver electricity on demand using molten silicon and high-temperature pump, offering cost-effective alternative to pumped hydroelectric storage. The system could be paired with existing renewable energy systems to capture excess electricity during the day and store it for later use.
Researchers conducted a 19-month experiment to study algae growth in five outdoor locations across the US. The project provided valuable data on optimal conditions for algae production, which can help others make predictions and develop strategies for growing algae in various regions.
Engineers are working on a $1.88 million grant to study the fundamental properties of gallium oxide for use in high-voltage power systems. The goal is to minimize energy losses and enhance performance in devices such as surveillance drones, all-electric airplanes, and electric vehicles.
A new study by Ohio State University found that utility customers rely on perception of cost savings rather than actual savings when deciding to participate in energy-conservation programs. The study involved 8,702 customers and showed that consumers who thought they were saving more were more likely to renew their programs.
A new composite material enables electrochemical water splitting into hydrogen and oxygen without emissions. The catalyst uses cobalt, nickel oxide, and gold nanoparticles to produce cheap, clean hydrogen for fuel cells. This innovation has the potential to store renewable energy on a large scale.
Environmental organizations and social movements in Chile played a crucial role in fostering renewable energy policy, according to a new study. The authors argue that 'contingent coalitions' - collective actors with shared interests - were instrumental in promoting innovative policies and increasing the political clout of these groups.
Renewable energy cooperatives are a viable option for energy production and marketing, offering a democratic alternative to fossil fuels. Despite regulatory hurdles, the number of contracts exceeding 70,000 demonstrates their potential in Spain.
The Jefferson Lab team received a DOE Award for its energy-efficient data center upgrade, which improved flexibility, reduced costs, and increased security and reliability. The lab achieved an average power use effectiveness level of 1.27 through the consolidation of space and implementation of advanced technologies.
Researchers at RiKarbon create a bio-based oil from plant scraps and natural oils to replace petroleum-based products in cosmetics, lubricants, and renewable energy. This eco-friendly oil reduces carbon footprint and minimizes pressure on petroleum resources, offering a sustainable solution for industries.
Researchers developed a hybrid photoelectrochemical and voltaic (HPEV) cell that turns sunlight into both hydrogen fuel and electricity, overcoming the limitations of current materials. The device achieves a combined efficiency of 20.2%, three times better than conventional solar hydrogen cells.
A Chinese research team has developed a new chemical looping process for synthesizing ammonia from nitrogen gas, water, and renewable energy. The process offers great promise for saving energy and reducing carbon dioxide emissions, potentially addressing the challenges of the energy and environmental crisis.
A special issue published in Energy Efficiency Journal outlines how carbon emissions can be reduced through demand-side approaches, including transport sector strategies such as telecommuting, public transport, and vehicle electrification.
The partnership will boost the Chicago-area innovation ecosystem by providing a new model for manufacturing high-tech start-ups. Argonne scientists will utilize mHUB's expertise and resources in manufacturing and business modeling to support energy tech-related companies.
The DOE has funded Argonne's high-efficiency latent heat thermal energy storage system (TESS) for use in building applications and process/manufacturing industries. TESS can store waste heat, reducing costs and increasing energy efficiency, especially during periods of high electricity pricing.
ORNL scientists created a 20-kilowatt wireless charging system that transfers 120 kilowatts of power with 97 percent efficiency. The system enables faster and more convenient charging, rivaling the speed of gas station fill-ups.
A study by Christine Horne and Emily Kennedy found bipartisan support for renewable energy, with conservatives viewing it as financially smart and a step towards self-sufficiency. Democrats strongly link renewable energy to environmental protection and reducing carbon emissions. The research highlights an area of common ground between ...
The High Performance Computing for Manufacturing (HPC4Mfg) Program aims to optimize production processes, enhance product quality and speed up design and testing cycles using supercomputers. Argonne researchers will work with industry partners and scientists at the ALCF to develop advanced manufacturing technologies.
The University of Delaware has secured a four-year funding renewal from the U.S. Department of Energy for its Catalysis Center for Energy Innovation, advancing processes for converting biomass into chemicals and fuels. The center has contributed to over 340 publications and trained more than 350 students in sustainable technologies.
Researchers found that large-scale wind farms would require five to 20 times more land area than previously estimated, and their operation would warm average surface temperatures by 0.24 degrees Celsius in the continental US. The study suggests that localized warming occurs even with smaller projections of wind power generation.
Researchers at University of Surrey develop innovative Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs) that capture energy from human movements, wind, and machine vibration. The study provides a step-by-step guide on constructing efficient energy harvesters, paving the way for a future with free and renewable energy.
Michigan State University has been awarded a $2 million grant to develop new designs for long-duration storage on the US power grid. The project, called Scalable Thermochemical Option for Renewable Energy Storage (STORES), aims to create modular thermal storage systems that can store heat energy in the form of chemical energy.
Researchers developed a new management system for lithium batteries in renewable energy facilities, improving their performance and lifetime. The system uses mathematical models to optimize battery usage, balancing the need for efficient energy storage with minimizing degradation.
Scientists have developed a comprehensive model of electrochemistry that combines existing theories to predict previously unexplained behavior. The Unified Electrochemical Band-Diagram Framework enables the prediction of material properties and behavior in any electrode, including batteries, supercapacitors, and catalysis.
The Joint Center for Energy Storage Research (JCESR) has been renewed by the DOE for another five years, with a total of $120 million in annual funding. The center aims to create next-generation energy storage technologies that will transform transportation and the electric grid.
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in understanding the conversion of CO2 to electrofuels, shifting from trial-and-error to rational catalyst design. They found that CO2 activation begins with one common intermediate, carboxylate CO2, which is attached to the surface with C and O atoms.
The European Renewable Energy Directive may lead to vast new cutting of the world's forests as a result of additional wood needed just to supply 5 percent of Europe's energy. This is expected to increase greenhouse gas emissions by 10 to 15 percent in Europe's energy use by 2050.
NETenergy will commercialize its hybrid thermal energy storage technology to reduce cooling costs in commercial buildings. The $500,000 grant from the DOE will help construct a hybrid HVAC prototype and develop it for commercialization.
Researchers at St John's College, University of Cambridge, successfully split water into hydrogen and oxygen using semi-artificial photosynthesis, producing more solar energy than natural photosynthesis. This innovation could revolutionize renewable energy production with a green and unlimited source of energy.
A new study sets a deadline of 2035 for governments to take decisive climate action to limit global warming below 2°C. The research found that even with strong renewable energy growth, humanity will likely cross the point of no return unless drastic emissions reductions are made immediately.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy's annual report, wind energy prices in the United States are at an all-time low due to technology advancements and cost reductions. Bigger turbines with increased rotor diameters have improved wind project capacity factors, while lower turbine pricing has pushed down installed project costs.
Four Argonne experts earn Distinguished Achievement awards for their work on transportation, sustainability, and mobility. The team created tools to measure alternative fuel technologies and standardized EV charging standards globally.
A team of researchers led by Dr Marco Taddei at Swansea University's ESRI has found a way to utilize defects in metal-organic frameworks to capture CO2. The team investigated the role of defects in post-synthetic exchange, a process that allows MOFs to be modified through exchange of components of their structure.
A new study reveals that Europe's power system can comfortably generate at least 35% of its electricity using renewable energy alone without major impacts on prices or system stability. The research, which analyzed 30 years of meteorological data, found that Europe could use renewables for more than two-thirds of its electricity by 2030.
A new study from Indiana University finds that states requiring utilities to increase renewable energy see expansion of renewable facilities and generation, particularly solar. The research highlights the importance of policy design features such as stringency and planning processes in driving renewable energy development.
Researchers have developed a new organic molecule that can store and release energy tens of thousands of times over multi-year periods. The 'Methuselah' quinone molecule avoids degradation problems of previous molecules, providing long-term stability and high energy storage.
Longer solar contracts can leverage free fuel in solar power, reducing operating expenses (O&M costs) by up to 2 cents per kWh. This can lead to lower price bids for utility-scale renewable energy projects, making them more competitive.