Articles tagged with Renewable Energy
DOE's Small Business Vouchers pilot provides $590,000 in funding to four small businesses to develop innovative clean energy technologies. The program aims to promote economic development and American innovation by pairing laboratory resources with small business drive.
Scientists at Ames Laboratory will contribute to LightMAT through three core capabilities: powder processing, pilot-scale materials processing, and theoretical alloy development. These efforts aim to develop lighter materials for industries such as transportation, with the goal of improving energy savings and reducing costs.
Researchers at OIST found that wind farms on a grid are part of a larger geographic weather system, leading to correlated power outputs. This challenges the assumption that geographically distributed wind farms are independent and poses difficulties in forecasting power output.
Researchers at NREL have improved the maximum voltage available from CdTe solar cells, breaking the 1V barrier and enabling more efficient electricity generation. The innovation could significantly reduce manufacturing costs and make solar energy more cost-competitive with traditional energy sources.
A new study by SISSA/CNR IOM scientists reduces wastage of expensive catalysts used in fuel cells, allowing for more efficient and sustainable energy production. The researchers created nanoparticles on nanosteps, which remain dispersed and stable, enabling the material to be reused with lower costs.
The Cyclotron Road program has selected its second cohort of innovators, including researchers working on next-generation batteries, advanced materials, and solar technologies. The new cohort will receive funding and mentorship to develop their technology from Berkeley Lab.
A new biorefinery process developed by NREL has significantly improved ethanol production from algae, with a yield of 126 gallons of gasoline equivalents per ton of biomass. The process, called Combined Algal Processing (CAP), reduces costs by nearly $10/GGE compared to traditional methods.
Researchers discovered a new type of enzyme assembly in C. thermocellum that allows the microorganism more freedom to explore for additional biomass, providing redundancy in its cellulolytic system. The findings have important implications for industry and could lead to cheaper production of cellulosic ethanol and other advanced biofuels.
Investment in renewable electricity surpasses that in fossil fuels globally, according to University of Exeter expert. The shift towards sustainable energy systems is driven by improved policy discourse and decreasing costs, with momentum growing towards a flexible, renewable-based electricity system.
A new study suggests the US can transition to a low-carbon electricity system by 2030, reducing CO2 emissions by up to 78% and delivering electricity at costs similar to today's. The model uses weather-driven renewable resources to supply most of the nation's electricity.
A new study using the MIVES method has assessed the sustainability of various energy sources, including conventional and renewable power plants. Renewable energies consistently score higher in sustainability indices compared to conventional power plants.
The US Department of Energy has announced a significant investment in grid modernization research and development, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and enhancing infrastructure security. The new funding will support critical research and development over the next three years to help modernize America's electrical power grid.
Scientists at NREL found that certain defects can improve carrier collection and surface passivation of silicon solar cells. The study's results run counter to conventional wisdom and have implications for the development of more efficient solar cells.
A new study estimates that state renewable portfolio standard policies yielded significant environmental and economic benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions ($2.2 billion) and air pollution reductions ($5.2 billion). The study also found that RPS policies supported 200,000 renewable energy-related jobs and saved consumers...
Researchers at NREL have developed a new approach to producing hydrogen using solar energy, which uses molecular catalysts instead of precious metals. The new method showed comparable activity to metal-based catalysts and has the potential to be scalable and cost-effective.
A fully renewable energy system is achievable and economically viable for Russia and Central Asia by 2030, with costs comparable to European nuclear technology or carbon capture and storage. The region can expect a 20% reduction in electricity costs through integrated energy sectors.
Scientists have discovered a major metabolic pathway in cyanobacteria that can efficiently convert carbon dioxide into organic compounds. The pathway, led by NREL scientists, has the potential to produce chemicals and biofuels from CO2 or plant biomass, reducing reliance on natural gas.
Researchers at NREL have developed a new photoelectrochemical process for producing hydrogen that uses molecular catalysts instead of precious metals. The new method is more efficient and cost-effective, making it a promising solution for scalable hydrogen production.
Researchers have created more efficient nanoparticles in fuel cells, improving the conversion of methanol into electrical energy. The study provides guidelines for controlling the charge of nanoparticles, a crucial step in optimizing catalytic efficiency.
Scientists at NREL have developed a new probe to monitor the formation and decay of fields within photoelectrodes, enabling better understanding of their photophysics. This breakthrough could lead to improvements in the design of more efficient and stable photoelectrochemical cells for solar energy conversion.
The UTSA-led team will design and develop piezoelectric sensors to generate electricity from moving vehicles, powering roadside lights, traffic signals, and electric car charging stations. This technology has been field-tested in US and international studies, offering a clean alternative to fossil fuel-generated power.
The UN report concludes that green energy technologies can significantly reduce global pollution if chosen wisely. Renewable electricity generates much lower greenhouse gas emissions than fossil fuels, with wind and solar power producing only 5-6% of the emissions created by coal-fired plants.
The report reveals that renewable energy improves the environment and protects human health by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. However, it also highlights challenges such as material scarcity, recycling issues, and energy penalties from carbon capture and storage systems.
A new study by Stanford researcher Mark Z. Jacobson suggests storing solar energy underground to meet electricity demand on cloudy days. The proposed system uses heat, cold, and electricity storage to provide a stable grid, with potential benefits including reduced air pollution and lower costs.
Scientists at NREL have discovered a way to increase the efficiency of perovskite solar cells by reducing energy lost to heat. By utilizing hot-carrier solar cells, the potential efficiency limit increases from 33% to 66%. Perovskites are a class of materials with various technological applications.
Researchers at PNNL found that Cyanothece uses both stored energy and direct sunlight to produce hydrogen. The organism's ability to create robust amounts of hydrogen makes it a viable catalyst for hydrogen production.
The University of Missouri engineer Yangchuan Xing has received a $2.2 million DOE grant to develop manufacturing technology for lithium ion batteries used in electric vehicles. The project aims to drive down the cost of environmentally friendly automobiles, creating jobs and economic development in Missouri.
Researchers at ORNL discovered a new mechanism for converting bio-based ethanol into hydrocarbon blend-stocks, eliminating an energy-consuming intermediary step. This breakthrough could support the economic viability of direct biofuel-to-hydrocarbon conversion technologies.
The project aims to develop transactive controls that optimize energy usage in buildings and devices, improving efficiency and reducing costs. Researchers will test the technology at three campuses, including Washington State University and the University of Washington, to demonstrate its potential for grid modernization.
The new system, developed by EPFL's Distributed Electrical Systems Laboratory, is based on high-performance lithium-ion titanate cells and can store up to 500 kWh of energy. Researchers will use it to study and optimize the functioning of renewable energy systems and feed them into the power distribution grid.
A recent study found that green commercial buildings have higher average rents (3.7%) and occupancy rates (18.7% in Canada, 9.5% in the US) compared to non-green buildings. Tenant satisfaction scores also increased by 7% in Canada.
A new study led by UC Riverside researchers found that utility-scale solar energy development can drive land-use and land-cover change, resulting in greenhouse gas emissions. The study emphasizes the need for optimized solar energy development to minimize environmental impacts.
Large-scale wind power generation can reduce breeding success of white-tailed eagles by causing collision mortality. Preventive measures are needed to protect vulnerable species and ensure sustainable energy production.
A new study found that most utility-scale solar energy facilities in California are located in natural habitats, leading to environmental conflicts. The researchers identified areas for more sustainable siting, including built-up lands and those already affected by human activities.
Researchers at KIT have developed an invisibility cloak that guides sunlight around contact fingers on solar cells, reducing optical losses and increasing efficiency. By applying a special coating onto the solar cell, the cloaking effect can be achieved, potentially leading to up to 10% increase in efficiency.
Berkeley Lab's report reveals a 70% decline in PPA prices since 2009, making solar increasingly cost-competitive for utilities. Installed project costs have fallen by over 50%, with median up-front costs dropping from $6.3/W to $3.1/W.
Michigan State University has partnered with ExxonMobil to improve the efficiency of photosynthesis in microalgae to produce biofuels and bioproducts. The project aims to determine which algae are most efficient under various conditions, leveraging new technologies developed by MSU researchers.
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh built complex computer models to understand why cells developed pathways to convert sugar into energy. The study suggests that these metabolic systems evolved to produce more energy compared to alternative pathways.
A new study explores the potential of Pressure Retarded Osmosis technology to extract energy from salinity gradients in Australian waters. The research suggests that brine, rejected during desalination, can be used as a source of osmotic energy, offering a carbon emission-free alternative to fossil fuels.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University will analyze data from over 5 million solar panels worldwide to identify factors contributing to degradation. By applying an epidemiological approach, they aim to develop more reliable designs and extend the lifespan of solar panels.
Researchers at UMass Amherst are developing smart energy services that use data from Holyoke Gas & Electric Co.'s smart meters to reduce peak demand, promote local renewable energy and save customers money. The services will also provide real-time notifications for unusual energy usage and suggested conservation tips.
University of Cincinnati quantum chemistry researcher Thomas Beck develops new methods to calculate the thermodynamics of ion hydration, leading to more efficient renewable energy devices. His findings have garnered international respect and recognition from top physicists.
Researchers have developed a system that captures energy from 'hot electrons' to split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen, offering a promising means of harnessing renewable energy. The process uses light-activated gold nanoparticles and efficiently increases solar-to-electric power-conversion efficiencies.
A new policy article suggests that opening up access to power grids, ending fossil-fuel subsidies, and supporting renewable energy technologies can make wind and solar power cheaper. The authors argue that modernizing power grids and ensuring policies related to renewable energy are crucial for reducing emissions.
A new study from the University of Texas at Dallas reveals that US investors prefer coal over renewable energy, reflecting a different environmental perspective. In contrast, European investors prioritize renewable energy stocks, driven by environmentally conscious attitudes.
Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have made breakthroughs in manipulating photosynthesis to create a robust and renewable energy source. By storing sunlight in chemical bonds, they can produce hydrogen, a clean-burning fuel that could power cars and households.
The EOLO group has developed a novel method for predicting wave energy up to 16 hours in advance, using a combination of historical measurements and machine learning algorithms. This technique has shown higher reliability than existing methods for forecasting swell and storms in the Bay of Biscay.
Researchers at the University of Kansas found that large wind farms can trigger a slowdown effect in atmospheric flow, resulting in less renewable energy generated. This phenomenon, known as the 'turbulence-attenuation effect,' affects wind turbines' ability to generate electricity.
A new study maps potential wind-power sites and nesting patterns of golden eagles, revealing 'sweet spots' where wind power can coexist with eagle habitats. The research provides a framework for industry and managers to assess potential development and minimize bird deaths.
A new study has analyzed data from Great Britain, the US and Sweden to profile human population growth and its consumption of energy. The research found that energy use generally outpaced population growth over the past few hundred years.
Researchers have developed a method to revive oscillations in complex networks, including power grids and biological systems. This approach uses advanced mathematical analysis to stabilize rhythms, which can be disrupted by external factors such as renewable energy fluctuations or changes in the human cardiovascular system.
Researchers at NREL have identified battery second-use strategies that can offset vehicle expenses while improving utility grid stability. Reusing Li-ion batteries can retain up to 70% of their initial capacity and provide a credit of $1,000 to car owners.
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory has been selected as one of five national laboratories to lead the Department of Energy's new Small Business Vouchers Pilot. The lab will provide technology assistance to small clean energy firms in three sectors: bioenergy, water power, and buildings.
A five-year regional smart grid pilot project in the Pacific Northwest improved energy efficiency and reduced power costs by up to $235,000 annually. The project also demonstrated the effectiveness of transactive control technology in improving reliability and reducing peak demand.
The study explores how retail rate design affects PV deployment, finding dramatic impacts from -14% to -61%. Increased solar deployment can lead to changes in compensation levels that accelerate or dampen further deployment.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory design a multifunctional landscape that balances economic feasibility, bioenergy, and environmental health. By analyzing subareas of a cornfield, they found that planting bioenergy crops like willows or switchgrass can provide biomass feedstock while limiting nitrogen fertilizer runoff.
Researchers have found that wind turbines can be installed under viaducts to produce electricity, offering a new source of renewable energy. The study suggests that this concept could be applied in heavily built-up territories or natural areas with limited space for new constructions.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new power scheduling technique that coordinates energy produced and stored by conventional and renewable sources. The approach replaces traditional centralized management with decentralized, distributed computing, enabling more efficient and secure energy distribution.
In 2014, renewables made up 59% of net additions to global power capacity, reaching 27.7% of the world's power generating capacity. This milestone marked the first time in four decades that the world economy grew without a parallel rise in CO2 emissions.
NREL is awarding up to $6.5 million in federal funds to technical teams across the US to test advanced control systems, smart consumer devices, energy storage, and emerging communications technologies for grid reliability and efficiency. The projects aim to accelerate modernization of the electric grid and enable a clean energy future.