A special collection to address challenges and interdisciplinary frontiers in solar energy meteorology
A special collection addresses solar energy's environmental and technical issues, combining atmospheric science and solar engineering expertise.
Renewable Energy
Articles tagged with Renewable Energy
Cryptographic protocol enables secure data sharing in the floating wind energy sector
A new cryptographic framework proposes a data sharing scheme that guarantees data integrity without compromising privacy. The protocol uses advanced tools like zero-knowledge proofs to ensure confidentiality and facilitate the analysis of encrypted data.
How everyday activities inside your home can generate energy
Researchers are developing new ways to harvest and adapt energy from everyday home activities, such as turning a doorknob or opening a fridge door. This technology aims to create smart interfaces that can power appliances and assist people with disabilities, increasing energy efficiency and accessibility.
Geothermal aquifers offer green potential but quality checks required
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University identified clogging in a geothermal well due to accidental venting, highlighting the need for regular inspection and monitoring of water quality. The study emphasizes the importance of geochemical analysis of groundwater for stable and widespread use of aquifer thermal energy storage systems.
Breakthrough in photochemical water oxidation: Paving the way for sustainable energy
Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo have identified key factors driving photochemical water oxidation. By fine-tuning reaction potential and pH conditions, they enhance the efficiency of this process, paving the way for more sustainable energy solutions.
Towards smart cities: Integrating ground source heat pump systems with energy piles
The integration of ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems with energy piles offers a promising solution to address the growing urban heat island effect and reduce electricity consumption in smart cities. This technology provides efficient heating and cooling, reduces carbon emissions, and promotes sustainable urban development.
Climate change and innovative paths to a more sustainable future
Key findings include the urgent need for technological advancements in power generation, transportation, and materials to reduce GHG emissions. Additionally, the authors propose innovative agricultural practices and AI-powered clean energy solutions to promote sustainable development.
UCF researcher receives $3.8 million grant to develop a solar energy storage system
A UCF researcher is developing a thermochemical energy storage system to reserve solar energy for future use and contribute to the global transition to clean energy. The system uses chemical reactions to absorb or release heat, making it an advantageous way to store energy at high temperatures.
Powering the future together – Public-Private Collaboration for the energy transition in Finland
Finland's approach to Public-Private Collaboration enables effective addressing of complex issues like the energy transition through coordinated efforts among stakeholders. The Vaasa region, with its unique ecosystem orchestrations agency, drives innovation towards sustainable innovations.
SFU study urges Canada to build solar power mega-projects
A new report from Simon Fraser University recommends building mass utility-scale solar mega-projects to diversify Canada's energy mix and reduce reliance on hydroelectric power. The study suggests that prioritizing rapid deployment of utility-scale projects in optimal sunlight locations can have a transformative effect on the electrici...
Pioneering Argonne chemist Chris Johnson honored as National Academy of Inventors Fellow
Chris Johnson, a senior chemist at Argonne National Laboratory, has been elected as a fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) for his significant contributions to battery science. He pioneered the development of nickel-manganese-cobalt cathode materials and has published over 150 scientific papers on emerging sodium-ion batte...
So you want to build a solar or wind farm? Here’s how to decide where
A new study shows that coordinating the siting of solar farms, wind farms, and storage systems can improve efficiency and reduce costs by aligning renewable power generation with demand. The approach uses fine-grained weather data and energy system modeling to maximize utilization of renewable resources.
Researchers: If Power-to-X is to be a real climate solution, the state needs to use the stick
A study by University of Copenhagen researchers highlights the challenges in investing in green hydrogen projects, citing market risks, regulatory uncertainty, and high costs. Oil and gas companies are better positioned to finance large-scale hydrogen projects due to their expertise and infrastructure.
KAUST breakthrough unlocks vast lithium reserves in oilfields and seawater
A new technology extracts lithium from brine at concentrations as low as 20 ppm, making it economical for sources with low lithium concentrations. This innovation can create new value in oilfields, mining, and geothermal wells, potentially propelling Saudi Arabia into a leadership role in the global clean energy market.
Enhanced Battolyser stores electricity four times faster than before
Researchers from Delft University of Technology have developed a new 3D electrode design for the Battolyser, enabling it to store twice the amount of electricity and charge four times faster. This innovative design reduces space and costs while producing green hydrogen comparable to existing electrolysers.
Earning money while making the power grid more stable – energy consumers have a key role in supporting grid flexibility
A new method for efficiently utilizing energy users' flexibility in distribution and transmission networks has been introduced. Consumers can provide flexibility services, benefiting both the system operators and themselves financially. The dissertation highlights the need for improvements and investments to deploy these methods globally.
Virginia Tech chemist part of Department of Energy’s $50 million sodium-ion battery consortium
A $50 million consortium, led by Virginia Tech, aims to develop high-energy, long-lasting sodium-ion batteries using abundant and inexpensive materials. The initiative seeks to reduce US dependence on critical elements in lithium-ion batteries, paving the way for a more sustainable future in electric-vehicle technology.
Impact of climate change on water resources will increase price tag to decarbonize the grid
A new study warns that climate change's impact on water resources will significantly increase the cost of achieving zero-emission grids by 2050. The required investments in generation and transmission infrastructure are expected to be massive, with up to 139 gigawatts of power capacity needed in the Western United States.
Tufts University joins pioneering collaboration to advance campus decarbonization
Tufts University has joined a consortium to purchase 20,000 megawatt-hours of solar power by 2026, reducing its Boston health sciences campus energy-related emissions by 40%. The collaboration also aims to serve as a scalable model for advancing the national energy transition and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Engineered additive makes low-cost renewable energy storage a possibility
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have invented a water-soluble chemical additive that improves the performance of bromide aqueous flow batteries, making them more efficient and long-lasting. The additive solves issues such as ion leakage and gas formation, enabling the use of these batteries for grid-scale storage.
Quantum-inspired design boosts efficiency of heat-to-electricity conversion
Rice engineers create a new thermal emitter that achieves efficiencies of over 60% despite practical design constraints, opening possibilities for more sustainable industrial processes and renewable energy growth. The technology could inform the development of grid-scale alternative storage solutions and power space applications.
Making beneficiaries pay for new power lines is a fair strategy
A study by Cornell University researchers recommends that the costs of new power lines be borne by those who benefit from them, resolving disagreements over cost allocation. The 'beneficiary pays' approach encourages investment in the grid without disputes over cost-sharing.
Modeling and analysis reveals technological, environmental challenges to increasing water recovery from desalination
A new analysis reveals that zero liquid discharge (ZLD) technologies can increase water recovery from desalination while reducing waste, but at increased costs and energy consumption. The process poses tradeoffs between fighting future water scarcity and environmental effects.
Keeping the lights on and the pantry stocked: Ensuring water for energy and food production
Researchers from Stanford University's Natural Capital Project analyzed thousands of scenarios to find that investments in upstream reforestation and protected areas can increase water availability for downstream hydropower. This approach helps mitigate tensions between energy, agriculture, and ecosystems.
New program aims to BRIDGE gap in solar
The BRIDGE Program offers immersive five-week training in photovoltaic installation, covering components and safe installation. The program aims to increase employment opportunities and better understanding of clean energy among Native American women, addressing the underrepresentation in the solar industry.
Smart robots could withstand waves to cut green energy costs
A new study suggests that smart robots can predict waves in real-time, enabling them to work stably in turbulent seas. This technology could reduce the cost of generating renewable energy by up to 50%, making it more competitive with fossil fuels.
New platinum-nickel core-shell catalyst shows stability for oxygen reduction reactions
Researchers have developed a new platinum-nickel core-shell catalyst that exhibits significant boosts in activity and durability, making it a promising solution for sustainable energy applications. The catalyst's excellent performance is attributed to its core-shell design and improved surface strain.
Revolutionizing tech to produce sustainable fuel
The SRI and University of Houston-affiliated project aims to develop a modular microreactor technology that converts carbon dioxide into methanol using renewable energy sources. The project has the potential to transform sustainable fuel production, offering a clean alternative for sectors like transportation.
‘Game changer’ in lithium extraction: Rice researchers develop novel electrochemical reactor
Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel three-chamber electrochemical reactor that improves the selectivity and efficiency of lithium extraction from geothermal brines. The reactor achieves high lithium purity rates and minimizes by-product formation, offering a promising approach to address growing demand for lithium in ...
Nuclear energy will play a vital role in Europe’s clean energy mix
A recent study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that nuclear energy can lead to a more affordable energy system overall. It can reduce the need for costly power grid expansions and energy storage, while lowering environmental impacts and air pollution.
Researchers drive solid-state innovation for renewable energy storage
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are studying how a new type of battery fails to improve long-term storage of wind and solar energy. By analyzing the failure mechanisms, researchers can design more durable solid electrolytes that support storing renewable energy for longer periods.
Power grids supplied largely by renewable sources experience lower intensity blackouts
Research shows that power systems with higher weather-dependent renewable energy sources (WD-RESs) tend to have reduced blackout intensities in the US. High WD-RES penetration does not worsen the weather vulnerability of power systems, even during extreme weather events.
Leveraging machine learning to find promising compositions for sodium-ion batteries
A team of scientists leveraged machine learning to find promising compositions for sodium-ion batteries, achieving exceptional energy density. The study trained a model on a database of 100 samples to predict the optimal ratio of elements needed to balance properties like operating voltage and capacity retention.
Modeling the system for hybrid renewable energy using highly efficient converters and generator
The paper proposes a novel method for modeling hybrid renewable energy systems using high-efficiency converters and generators. The research results show that the front-end converter is suitable for isolating sources from loads and enhancing DC bus voltage, with simple control algorithms and reduced switching losses.
Texas A&M receives funding to train machine learning tools in discovery of new materials for fusion power plants
The project aims to identify and fabricate optimized first-wall materials using advanced computer simulations enhanced by machine learning, accelerating the discovery of new materials by 100-fold. The research will leverage synthesis, irradiation, and testing facilities to conduct a high-impact materials discovery campaign.
Aston University researchers receive half a million pounds to lead next generation of renewable cooling research
Researchers will focus on harnessing waste heat and renewable energy sources to power clean cooling technologies. The project aims to address the growing environmental impact of cooling in various industries, with demand expected to multiply in the coming years.
On the path to carbon neutrality: Leopoldina and Chinese Academy of Sciences publish joint Berlin Declaration
The Berlin Declaration aims to achieve carbon neutrality through basic research and international cooperation. The declaration highlights the importance of developing effective measures to reduce CO2 emissions in all sectors, including energy and industry.
The Lancet: Health threats of climate change reach record-breaking levels, as experts call for trillions of dollars spent on fossil fuels to be redirected towards protecting people’s health, lives and livelihoods
The Lancet's Countdown report reveals record-breaking human costs of climate change, including heat-related deaths increasing by 167% globally in 2023. The report calls for trillions of dollars spent on fossil fuels to be redirected towards protecting people's health and lives.
FAU awarded DOE grant to test ocean current energy offshore Palm Beach County
Florida Atlantic University's Southeast National Marine Renewable Energy Center is establishing a blue energy hub to develop and test ocean current energy technologies. The project aims to improve the nation's competitiveness in marine energy technology and create jobs.
Significant extension of zinc battery lifespan
Researchers at TUM developed a new protective layer for zinc anodes, addressing issues like zinc dendrites and hydrogen formation. The layer enables efficient zinc ion flow through nano-channels, extending battery lifespan by hundreds of thousands of cycles.
DOE awards $12 million to expand marine energy initiatives at Lehigh and partner universities
The Atlantic Marine Energy Center (AMEC) will develop new research projects, infrastructure, and educational programs using the funding. Lehigh University will lead two research projects focused on tidal turbine blades and real-time stable marine energy microgrid power management.
New AI model could make power grids more reliable amid rising renewable energy use
Researchers developed an AI model that addresses uncertainties in renewable energy generation and electric vehicle demand, making power grids more reliable. The model uses multi-fidelity graph neural networks to optimize solutions within seconds, improving grid performance even under unpredictable conditions.
SMU solution may be key to low-cost, long-lasting renewable batteries for electric vehicles
Researchers at SMU have found a way to prevent polysulfide dissolution in lithium-sulfur batteries, leading to more durable and long-lasting batteries with higher energy levels. The new hybrid polymer network cathode outperforms conventional lithium-ion batteries in terms of cycling capacity.
Towards zero-emissions by fuel-flexible technologies – New Finnish consortium brings cleaner solutions to marine and off-road transport
The Flexible Clean Propulsion Technologies project aims to develop innovative clean solutions for maritime transport and off-road machinery, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 100% through the use of zero- and low-carbon fuels. The consortium brings together key players in Finland and international partners to shape the future ...
Harnessing vibrations: RPI-engineered material generates electricity from unexpected source
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed a polymer film infused with a special chalcogenide perovskite compound that produces electricity when squeezed or stressed. The material has shown promising results, including powering LED lights and potentially being used in machines, infrastructure, and biomedical applications.
Husker scientists exploring hydrogen energy potential from underground rift
Researchers are studying the rift to access naturally occurring hydrogen, which could yield vast amounts of clean energy. The data is promising, and scientists believe it's possible to store and access trapped hydrogen in the rift.
Updating offshore turbine designs to reflect storms’ complexity is key
Researchers emphasize the need for updating offshore turbine designs to reflect the complexity of storms. Advanced modeling techniques and data-driven models are being developed to address this issue.
3D printing method could enable better micro energy storage
Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a novel 3D printing method to fabricate glass micro-supercapacitors with enhanced performance. The approach utilizes ultrashort laser pulses to create electrodes with increased surface area and rapid ion transport, leading to improved energy storage capabilities.
Telescopes can help bring renewable energy to isolated Chilean communities
Building a renewable energy system for the AtLAST telescope in Chile's Atacama Desert could cover 66% of nearby San Pedro de Atacama's electricity demand. The system would reduce local reliance on fossil fuels and provide affordable renewable energy, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Lab data confirm potential of geothermal’s holy grail: superdeep, superhot rock as important renewable energy source
Researchers have confirmed that fractures can form in superhot, superdeep rock, making it more permeable and potentially increasing its economic value. This breakthrough could lead to the development of cleaner, more efficient geothermal energy sources.
New tool aims to boost ocean-based renewable energy
Researchers created a modeling tool to design more robust marine hydrokinetic technologies and inform risk assessments for financing and permitting. The tool estimates the fragility curve of devices, helping developers create mooring systems that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Solar-powered desalination system requires no extra batteries
The system removes salt from water at a pace that closely follows changes in solar energy, maximizing the utility of solar power. It produces large quantities of clean water despite variations in sunlight throughout the day, making it an attractive solution for communities with limited access to seawater and grid power.
Methane emissions from dairy farms higher than thought - but conversion could reduce emissions
New research reveals methane emissions from slurry stores on dairy farms may be up to five times greater than official statistics suggest. Capturing and converting methane into biogas could reduce emissions and save farmers over £400 million a year in fuel costs.
Model projects energy storage needs for fossil fuel-free energy system
Researchers developed a model to project Italy's energy storage needs for a renewable energy system, accounting for daily and seasonal fluctuations. The model suggests that increasing short-term energy storage capacity is critical for decarbonizing the power sector.
New cooling system works on gravity instead of electricity
Researchers at KAUST have developed a new cooling system that extracts water from the air using gravity, eliminating the need for electricity. The system can double the rate of water collection compared to alternative technologies and offers significant energy savings.
Untapped potential: Study shows how water systems can help accelerate renewable energy adoption
Researchers developed a framework to measure how water systems can adjust their energy use to balance power grid supply and demand. They found that water systems could shift up to 30% of their energy use during peak demand times, leading to significant cost savings.
Study highlights complex ocean conditions facing world’s most powerful tidal turbine
Researchers used aerial drone technology and boat-based surveys to map complex tidal flows around the world's most powerful tidal turbine, O2. The study provides new insights into optimal turbine placement and site-specific assessments to address uncertainties surrounding interactions with marine habitats and environments.
How Ukraine can rebuild its energy system
Researchers have identified Ukraine's renewable potential as exceeding the generation capacity destroyed during the war. The study recommends developing a distributed power supply system and investing in solar and wind energy, particularly in the south and east of the country.
Boosting clean energy with AI-powered catalysts and microwave plasma technologies
Researchers develop AI-driven catalyst discovery and simulate complex interactions to enhance hydrogen generation, carbon capture, and energy storage efficiency. The project aims to create a knowledgeable and skilled workforce capable of addressing critical challenges in the clean energy transition.
HSE scientists have examined potential impact of nuclear power on sustainable development
Researchers at HSE University developed mathematical models to predict impact of nuclear power on Sustainable Development Index. Increasing nuclear power share to 20-25% could boost SDI, but scenarios with slower growth or reduction lead to lower increases.