A team of researchers found that prosumers, who produce their own electricity, can lower transmission charges when generating less energy. However, when producing a large amount of renewable energy, transmission charges increase. The study suggests levying a per-MWh tax on prosumer consumption to reduce the likelihood of death spirals.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalApplied Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 1, 2023
Researchers have developed an electrolyte to improve the efficiency of CO2 conversion into useful hydrocarbons. The study found that controlling the concentration of the electrolyte is crucial in regulating product formation, with too much potassium leading to clogage and reduced selectivity.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2023
Researchers from City University of Hong Kong and NREL developed a one-step solution-coating approach to simplify PSC manufacturing, resulting in high efficiency and stability. The new method reduces process complexity and cost, bringing PSCs closer to commercialization.
SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Global experts urge a commitment to PV growth to power the planet, citing increasing acceptance and need for large-scale deployment. By 2050, 75 terawatts or more of globally deployed PV will be needed to meet decarbonization goals.
SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 18, 2023
Using high-throughput experiments and machine learning-based algorithms, researchers forecast the behavior of hybrid perovskites with high accuracy. The study aims to find materials that combine high-efficiency performance with resilience to environmental conditions.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2023
The system uses a parabolic dish to concentrate solar radiation, which is then converted into hydrogen, oxygen, and heat through photoelectrochemical cells. The output power exceeds 2 kilowatts, achieving record-high efficiency for its scale, with potential applications in industrial, commercial, and residential energy.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2023
A recent MIT study finds that shutting down nuclear power could significantly increase air pollution, with up to 5,200 premature deaths estimated. The study reveals that fossil fuel sources would fill the gap, leading to increased health risks, especially for Black or African American communities.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 10, 2023
The UK government's introduction of a 45% levy on renewable energy profits may undermine investor confidence and deter low-carbon generators from developing in the country. This could potentially hinder the UK's ability to meet its 2050 emission targets, according to Dr Catherine Caine from the University of Exeter Law School.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Law Review·DateApr 5, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
The latest issue of PLOS Biology features a special collection on biology-based solutions to reduce plastic pollution, carbon dioxide emissions, and produce food or energy more sustainably. Insect enzymes may degrade plastic waste, while photosynthetic algae can capture CO2 produced by industrial applications.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2023
A novel copper-containing polymeric filter can effectively capture carbon dioxide from the air, converting it into sodium bicarbonate that can be released harmlessly into the ocean. The technology has garnered international attention and could be powered by renewable energy in the future.
SourceLehigh University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 31, 2023
The article explores knowledge gaps between laboratory and industrial manufacturing of batteries, highlighting the need for a shift in research priorities. Researchers propose new ways to design experiments that account for industry challenges, such as cost efficiency and impurity tolerance. The study aims to bridge the gap between fun...
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 30, 2023
Scientists designed a synthetic molecule that mimics the hydrogen gas-producing chemical reaction performed by nickel-iron hydrogenase enzyme. The new compound efficiently produces hydrogen using earth-abundant metals, potentially replacing platinum metal in industrial electrolysis.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2023
Researchers have developed a practical method to generate green hydrogen using natural enzymes, which contain only earth-abundant elements. The new approach enables the efficient production of green hydrogen from sunlight, making it a promising solution for decarbonizing transportation and industries.
SourceSwansea University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have found that more predictable solar or wind energy generation can save millions of dollars in operating costs and prevent clean energy spillage. By analyzing six existing solar farms, they discovered that optimal locations changed when predictability was considered, leading to significant in...
SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPatterns·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023
Scientists have discovered a new way to extract energy from photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient ways of generating clean fuels and renewable energy.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateMar 22, 2023
Advances in drilling technology are unlocking geothermal energy's full potential, with supercritical water offering an efficient energy source. Improved drilling methods aim to overcome the financial barrier of deep geothermal exploration, enabling a step-change in power output.
A comprehensive product stewardship scheme has been proposed to address the environmental impact of solar panel disposal in Australia. The plan includes recycling steps, serial numbers for tracking, and legislation to ensure environmentally friendly disposal.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAIMS Energy·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 20, 2023
The Center for Bioenergy Innovation has been renewed with $590 million in funding over five years to develop sustainable jet fuel from nonfood biomass crops and specialty processes. The center aims to reach Tier 1 validation of its jet biofuel, reducing carbon dioxide emissions from commercial aircraft.
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
A European consortium has achieved a world-record solar-to-fuel efficiency of over 10% in converting CO2 and H2O into sustainable fuels using sunlight. The innovative cell produces hydrogen continuously (24/7) without the use of critical raw materials.
SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMar 13, 2023
Researchers have developed a novel and cost-effective anode catalyst that can improve and stabilize power generation performance of MFCs treating vegetable oil industry wastewater. The study investigates modification of electrodes to increase bacterial adhesion and efficient electron transfer.
SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateMar 13, 2023
Domestic solar panel manufacturing in the US can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% and energy consumption by 13% compared to international trading partners. By 2050, US-made solar panels will be more efficient, reducing carbon footprint by 33% and using 17% less energy.
SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2023
The National Science Foundation has awarded Arizona State University $90.8 million to advance x-ray science, including the construction of the world's first Compact X-ray Free Electron Laser. This technology will enable researchers to explore complex matter at atomic length and ultrafast time, paving the way for breakthroughs in human ...
Researchers at UCLA have developed a new type of solar roof that can harness energy from sunlight without blocking light for plants. The innovative design uses semi-transparent organic solar cells with a layer of L-glutathione, which extends the cells' lifetime and improves efficiency.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
More than two million Europeans contributed to renewable energy initiatives, installing 7.2-9.9 GW worth of facilities and promoting behavioral change. The collective effort produced enough electricity for 8,500-11,700 kWh per person, covering a typical European household's needs.
SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 2, 2023
A novel deep learning-based forecasting model predicts uncertain parameters related to renewable energy sources, their energy demand, and market prices. The model demonstrates improved prediction accuracy and efficiency compared to existing methods.
SourceChung Ang University·JournalApplied Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 1, 2023
Channeling ions into grain boundaries in perovskite materials improves the stability and operational performance of perovskite solar cells, paving the way for more efficient and practical solar cell technologies. This breakthrough finding may also inform the development of more efficient energy storage technologies.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
The war in Ukraine may trigger a new global land race, threatening rural livelihoods and the environment. Large-scale land acquisitions could exacerbate conditions of water scarcity and land degradation, prompting concerns about policy implications and long-lasting effects on rural development.
SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 24, 2023
Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin examined the chemistry of Cobalt-Iron Oxyhydroxides using X-ray absorption spectroscopy. They discovered that iron is present in higher oxidation states than previously thought, which could lead to improved electrocatalysts for water splitting and carbon dioxide reduction.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2023
Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a novel method to boost the light conversion efficiency of perovskites by 250 percent using substrates of metal and dielectrics. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient solar cells and detectors.
SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a new technique that captures real-time movies of copper nanoparticles as they convert carbon dioxide into renewable fuels and chemicals. The study reveals that metallic copper nanograins serve as active sites for CO2 reduction, paving the way for advanced solar fuel technology.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 16, 2023
Researchers developed a novel method to convert CO2 into formic acid using ruthenium complexes, achieving a high turnover number of 63. This technology has the potential to decrease global warming and provide valuable organic compounds.
SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalChemSusChem·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Researchers developed a new molten salt battery design using sodium and aluminum that can charge and discharge faster, operate at lower temperatures, and maintain excellent energy storage capacity. The battery's specific energy density could reach up to 100 Wh/kg, making it a promising solution for 10-plus hours of energy storage.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2023
A new research project aims to solve the physics behind excessive bubble formation in electrolysis, a bottleneck in large-scale green hydrogen production. The team will combine numerical simulations and laboratory experiments to develop reliable modelling tools.
The CABBI team successfully demonstrated precision gene editing in miscanthus, a promising perennial crop for sustainable bioenergy production. The results will accelerate efforts to tap the huge potential of this highly productive but genetically complex grass as a source for biofuels, renewable bioproducts, and carbon sequestration.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalBiotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Researchers have identified the need for standardization of performance indices and a single frame for normalization methods to address concerns with bioelectrochemical systems. The study proposes strategies for up-scaling BES technologies, enabling resource recovery through on-site treatment of wastewater at an efficiency comparable t...
SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalBioresource Technology·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 19, 2023
A new method for measuring bifacial solar panel performance has been developed by the University of Ottawa SUNLAB team. The study proposes a characterization method that considers external effects of ground cover like snow, grass, and soil, providing a way to accurately test panel performance indoors.
A team of researchers from GIST created a protection layer for nickel-iron catalysts using tetraphenylporphyrin, increasing their life and performance. This innovation reduces the dissolution of iron atoms during oxygen evolution reactions, resulting in prolonged hydrogen production.
SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
A new study reveals Iceland's potential to become a protein self-sufficient nation, producing hundreds of thousands of tonnes of biomass while mitigating over 700 million tons of CO2 emissions. This could significantly reduce Europe's reliance on imported protein-rich feed crops and enhance food security.
SourceReichman University·JournalFoods·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 18, 2023
Researchers discuss non-fused ring electron acceptors (NFREAs) to improve organic solar cell performances, balance efficiency and cost, and provide guidance for material design. NFREAs simplify synthesis processes while achieving high reaction yields and planarity.
SourceInstitute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 16, 2023
Researchers identify the (100) facet as prone to degradation, while the (111) facet is more stable and resistant to moisture and heat. By using facet engineering, they develop strategies to grow the stable (111) facet, leading to exceptionally stable perovskite films.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateJan 12, 2023
The UN reports that roughly 50,000 large dams worldwide will lose an estimated 23% to 28% of their combined original storage capacity by 2050, resulting in a loss of around 1.65 trillion cubic meters of water. This loss will undermine water security, irrigation, power generation, and other essential services.
SourceUnited Nations University - Institute for Water, Environment and Health·JournalSustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 11, 2023
University of Minnesota researchers develop groundbreaking new catalyst technology to convert renewable materials like trees and corn into acrylic acid and acrylates used in paints, coatings, and superabsorbent polymers. The new catalyst substantially reduces costs and increases yield, paving the way for lower-cost renewable chemicals.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJACS Au·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a highly efficient sodium-ion battery anode using quinacridones, exhibiting high rate capability and excellent cycle stability. The new material is cost-effective and sustainable, offering a promising alternative to traditional graphite anodes.
SourcePusan National University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2023
The article discusses how the Inflation Reduction Act's hydrogen production tax credit could backfire by increasing carbon pollution without proper implementation. To mitigate this, researchers suggest enforcing additional guidelines for clean energy procurement alongside the tax credit.
SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2022
The study suggests that increased demand for energy transition metals could be more disruptive to some communities than winding back production of thermal coal. An additional 115.7 million people would be at risk from disruption by ETMs.
SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 15, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
A new research project led by Associate Professor Marta Victoria aims to describe periods of extreme weather and design strategies for reliable renewable energy systems. The project, funded with DKK 6.2 million, will run for four years and focus on predicting and adapting to multiple adverse events.
MIT engineers create ultralight fabric solar cells that can generate 18 times more power-per-kilogram than conventional solar cells, making them ideal for wearable power fabrics or deployment in remote locations. The technology can be integrated into built environments with minimal installation needs.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalSmall Methods·DateDec 9, 2022
Scientists at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a method to harness electricity from wood placed in water, producing small amounts of bioelectricity. By nanoengineering the wood's surface area and porosity, they improved electricity generation by 10 times compared to natural wood.
SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeObservational study·DateDec 8, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
Purdue University professor Klein Ileleji's startup JUA Technologies International aims to improve crop drying methods using a high-efficiency, smart solar dehydrator. The grant will support product-design improvements and manufacturing, enabling small growers to add value to their crops and increase income.
In Germany, community participation in decision-making processes and sharing of financial benefits from renewables projects enhanced public support. However, recent delays and corporate investments have led to resentment. In contrast, Australia's decentralized approach to its power grid, including community energy projects, aims to bri...
SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalGlobalizations·DateDec 7, 2022
A study by UPV/EHU's Ekopol and Life Cycle Thinking groups found that an alternative community lifestyle can reduce energy consumption due to the significance of energy used in goods and services. The energy footprint per inhabitant of Errekaleor neighbourhood is 24% lower than that of ACBC.
SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·DateDec 6, 2022
A new optimization model by GIST researchers reduces operating costs and load shedding in microgrids, achieving a 20% decrease in average ENS. The model accounts for variations and uncertainty in renewable energy supply using an ANN-based prediction model, with predicted power output accuracy of 9.7%.
SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalApplied Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 6, 2022
A new MIT study suggests that prioritizing polluting power plants in times of wind energy generation could quadruple the health benefits associated with wind power, resulting in $8.4 billion in nationwide health benefits. However, this approach would not address existing disparities in air pollution exposure among low-income and minori...
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2022
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
Scientists at KAUST created a novel approach to secure microgrids by embedding hardware performance counters in solar inverters. This innovative solution can detect malware with over 97% accuracy using time series classifiers, providing an effective defense countermeasure for low-cost and low-complexity.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEnergy Reports·DateNov 24, 2022
A new study estimates the cost of a green transition in greenhouse gases, finding that building renewable infrastructure generates significant carbon emissions. However, speeding up the transition could dramatically decrease these emissions and limit warming to 2 degrees or even 1.5 degrees.
SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 21, 2022
A new research project at Aarhus University aims to develop intelligent drones that can detect ice on turbine blades, optimizing energy production and expanding market opportunities. The project has the potential to reduce energy losses by up to 80% and enable wind farms to operate in colder climates.
Researchers at MIT discovered that mechanical stresses can prevent dendrites from forming in solid-state lithium batteries. The team developed a way to apply controlled pressure to divert the growth of dendrites, making lightweight batteries safer and more efficient.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateNov 18, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
A new study finds that transitioning to a low-carbon energy system could lead to significant global emissions, consuming much of the remaining carbon budget. The average emissions associated with decarbonization amount to 195 gigatonnes of CO2, equivalent to 0.1°C of additional global warming.
SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2022
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new method to express energy loss in organic solar cells, revealing that disorder plays a significant role in determining overall energy loss. By understanding and minimizing disorder, scientists can create more efficient devices with homogeneous mixtures of materials.
SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalJoule·DateNov 18, 2022
A new study presents a comprehensive framework for assessing and mitigating the impacts of offshore wind energy development on marine birds. Researchers propose three steps for mitigation: avoid, minimize, and offset, with the potential to offset negative impacts through conservation strategies that can increase seabird population sizes.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 17, 2022