Articles tagged with Solar Energy
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
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Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
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A new study reveals Saharan dust reduces photovoltaic electricity generation across Europe and challenges existing forecasting models. The researchers recommend integrating near-real-time dust load data into forecasting models to improve reliability.
Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have developed a high-precision methodology to measure rooftop energy potential in Vitoria-Gasteiz. The study found that 50% of rooftops are viable for solar energy generation, enabling 38% of annual electricity consumption to be produced
Biomass is crucial for Europe's ability to reach its climate targets, providing both energy and negative emissions. Excluding biomass from the European energy system would increase costs by 169 billion Euros per year.
Researchers from Politecnico di Milano developed a study analyzing agrivoltaics' potential to reduce global conflict over land use. The coexistence of photovoltaic panels and agricultural crops can help solve the pressure on arable land due to growing energy demand and food production needs.
A new study found that financial benefits, such as saving on utility payments and avoiding electricity rate hikes, are a key driver of US adults' willingness to consider installing rooftop or subscribing to community solar power. The study also revealed that most participants didn't understand what community solar is and had not looked...
A new smart insole system monitors how people walk in real time to improve posture and provide early warnings for conditions like plantar fasciitis and Parkinson’s disease. The system offers high-resolution spatial sensing, self-powering capability, and combines with machine learning algorithms.
The European Commission has awarded €8 million to two projects, SUN-PERFORM and Solar to Butanol – S2B, to develop highly efficient bio-inspired technologies for renewable fuel production. These innovations target hard-to-electrify sectors like aviation and shipping, aiming to significantly reduce Europe's carbon emissions.
Researchers developed fluorescent polyionic nanoclays that can be customized for medical imaging, sensor technology, and environmental protection. These tiny clay-based materials exhibit high brightness and versatility, enabling precise tuning of optical properties.
A research team found that stages of 'dimming' and 'brightening' correspond with increased air pollution and implementation of clean energy solutions. The study suggests that reducing air pollution can lead to more sunlight reaching the Earth's surface, which could have compounding benefits for solar power production.
Researchers have developed a new forecasting tool called iDust that offers significant benefits for solar energy production by predicting dust storms with higher accuracy. The system provides critical support for China's expanding solar energy projects in desert regions, minimizing disruptions and financial losses.
Researchers engineered conjugation of donor and acceptor units in covalent organic frameworks to enhance photocatalytic H2O2 production. USTB-46 achieved a high yield of 8274 mmol g−1 h−1, attributed to optimized light absorption, thermodynamic catalytic activity, and compatible D-A units.
The PV Doctor uses AI-driven analytics to monitor and optimize solar PV system performance. It detects root causes of underperformance and provides actionable solutions to prevent energy losses and protect long-term asset value.
A Stanford study finds that a pivot to clean energy technologies by 2060 would improve energy security and reduce trade risks for most nations. The study analyzed potential new vulnerabilities under decarbonization relative to those associated with continued reliance on fossil fuels.
Researchers created solar cells using simulated Moon dust, converting sunlight into energy efficiently and withstanding radiation damage. The new panels produced up to 100 times more energy than traditional solar panels, cutting launch mass by 99.4% and transport costs by 99%.
Researchers at EPFL have developed a method to stabilize wide-bandgap perovskites using lattice strain, reducing energy losses and improving stability. This approach enables the incorporation of rubidium ions into the structure, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced photovoltage loss.
Experts from 22 research institutes evaluate optical technologies in photovoltaics to increase efficiency and enable new applications. Coloured solar modules for facades are identified as a promising innovation.
A novel sulfur plasma-assisted sputtering method was developed to precisely control the sulfur content in tin sulfide thin films. The research team found that slightly changing the composition of tin and sulfur significantly affected the morphology, leading to drastic changes in carrier density and structure.
Researchers at the University of Turku found that nanocellulose dyed with red onion skin extract provides very effective UV protection for solar cells. The film protected 99.9% of UV radiation up to 400 nanometres and maintained its performance throughout a long testing period.
Research proposes a new methodology for dynamically optimizing solar panel positioning based on the light needs of crops. Advanced ray tracing techniques are used to evaluate the distribution of solar radiation, enabling the automation of design optimization of agrivoltaic systems.
Researchers have successfully imitated one of the first steps of natural photosynthesis by creating a stack of dyes that absorbs light energy and transfers charge carriers. This breakthrough has significant implications for artificial photosynthesis, which could potentially produce hydrogen and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Experts discuss scientific and technological challenges in the energy transition, including solar technologies, hydrogen, batteries, grid management, and future energy sources. The joint paper recommends innovations leading to next-gen photovoltaic technology, green hydrogen production, and AI-powered grid management.
A new analysis of social media posts reveals that public support for solar energy remains high, but has become increasingly polarized. The study found that attitudes toward solar energy are largely being driven by politics, with significant differences in support across regions and states.
New University of Sheffield research reveals agrivoltaics can meet UK electricity demand four times over, boosting crop yields and conserving water. Regions identified for effective deployment include Cambridgeshire, Essex, Lincolnshire, and the broader East and South East of England.
Researchers have discovered a way to trap iodine in perovskite solar cells using alumina nanoparticles, enhancing lifespan and stability. The modified solar cells maintained high performance for over two months under extreme conditions.
The partnership aims to develop AI-driven tools to improve investment decisions, enhance system stability through intelligent forecasting, and deploy smart optimisation algorithms. The collaboration seeks to address key challenges in smart energy storage by integrating Trinasolar's expertise with NTU's leading research.
A novel bifacial linker, potassium benzyl(trifluoro)borate (BnBF3K), has been developed to prevent heterointerfacial delamination in flexible perovskite solar cells. This study significantly enhances device performance and mechanical stability by optimizing adhesion at the SnO2/perovskite interface.
Thermal stress is the key factor in degrading metal-halide perovskites used in solar cells. Researchers propose increasing crystalline quality and using buffer layers to improve stability.
Researchers from Indian Institute of Technology developed bifacial perovskite solar cells with a novel NiO/Ag/NiO transparent electrode, achieving high efficiency, durability, and infrared transparency. The cells demonstrated impressive power conversion efficiencies and high bifaciality factors.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new type of back-contact solar cell design using perovskite material and tiny grooves in plastic film. The technology enables scalable, low-cost manufacturing and avoids expensive rare earth metals, making it sustainable and affordable.
A recent study reveals a significant long-term decline in downward surface solar radiation globally, with significant decadal variations observed over land. The research highlights the role of water vapor in DSSR changes, which was previously overlooked, and shows that future DSSR changes will depend heavily on emission scenarios.
The solar-powered reactor converts atmospheric CO2 into syngas, which can be used to produce chemicals and pharmaceuticals without contributing to global warming. The technology has the potential to solve two problems at once: removing CO2 from the atmosphere and creating a clean alternative to fossil fuels.
Scientists at Linköping University have created a sustainable recycling process for perovskite solar cells, allowing all parts to be reused without hazardous solvents. The recycled cell retains the same efficiency as the original, paving the way for efficient energy harvesting and reduced e-waste.
A recent study published in One Ecosystem reveals that vegetation succession occurs in solar parks, supporting a wide range of biodiversity. The research suggests that mowing alone is insufficient to manage woody plants, highlighting the need for alternative construction methods and consulting experts in dynamic vegetation processes.
Teams from HZB and Humboldt University Berlin have developed a new tandem solar cell combining CIGS with perovskite, achieving a world record efficiency of 24.6%. This breakthrough could lead to higher efficiencies of over 30%, making CIGS-perovskite tandem cells a promising technology for sustainable energy solutions.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge and the University of California, Berkeley have developed a practical way to produce hydrocarbons from carbon dioxide using copper nano-flowers on artificial leaves. The device produces more complex hydrocarbons with two carbon atoms, such as ethane and ethylene, which are key building blocks ...
A recent study by Ritsumeikan University researchers analyzed the durability of flexible perovskite solar cells under damp heat conditions. The findings revealed that high humidity leads to degradation, while a high-quality barrier film retained most power conversion efficiency, making it crucial for long-term stability.
A new technique allows for precise tracking of tiny particles known as dark excitons in time and space. This breakthrough has the potential to improve the quality and efficiency of solar cells and other devices.
A three-year project aims to proactively ensure circularity of solar panels by providing solutions to barriers throughout the supply chain. The team will develop reverse logistics models and next-generation data-driven supply chains for recycling solar panels and reusing critical materials like silicon and silver.
Researchers are exploring halide perovskites, a material that converts sunlight into energy efficiently. The team created distinct properties using ultra-cool methods, enabling mass production of solar cells.
Researchers developed a 3D contactless solar evaporation design to enhance heat and mass transport, achieving high evaporation rates and improved scalability. The design's performance variation between small and large devices is minimal, making it suitable for diverse water treatment scenarios.
A study from the University of Michigan suggests that organic solar cells made with small molecules can withstand radiation without degrading, outperforming traditional silicon-based systems. The cause of degradation in others may be preventable by filling electron traps with other atoms.
New research from Colorado State University finds that wildfire smoke has a modest impact on long-term solar power generation activity in the US. The study, published in Nature Communications, shows that power generated from photovoltaics remained relatively stable even in extreme fire seasons, with losses averaging around 5%.
A special collection addresses solar energy's environmental and technical issues, combining atmospheric science and solar engineering expertise.
The research team created a high-performance self-charging energy storage device using transition metal-based composite materials. The device demonstrated improved energy density (35.5 Wh kg⁻¹) and power density (2555.6 W kg⁻¹), with minimal degradation during repeated charge and discharge cycles.
Researchers developed a unique numerical decision-making framework for solar panel protection against extreme weather conditions. The framework treats individual panels as independent decision-makers, identifying creative solutions to reduce stress and minimize damage during high-wind events.
A combination of policies is necessary to encourage widespread adoption of environmentally friendly technologies like solar panels and heat pumps. Removing barriers for renters, such as subsidies and investment requirements, can make these technologies more accessible and affordable.
The Dream Team of University of Houston students developed a comprehensive 10-year energy plan to address energy poverty in Egypt and Turkey. Their interdisciplinary approach prioritized renewable energy technologies, resulting in $5,000 prize money and recognition for their sustainability and economic feasibility.
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.
Researchers at Linköping University have developed a design principle for producing efficient organic solar cells with environmentally friendly solvents, reducing toxicity and increasing scalability. The study's findings pave the way for commercializing sustainable solar cell technology on a larger scale.
Experts reveal how new photocatalytic sheets and reactors can split water into hydrogen and oxygen using sunlight. The breakthrough could make solar energy conversion a practical option, but challenges remain, including efficiency and safety concerns.
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.
Researchers developed a new amidinium-based coating that extends the life of perovskite solar cells, tripling their T90 lifetime and doubling their stability. The coated cells achieved a record-breaking 26% efficiency and withstood harsh conditions for up to 1,100 hours.
Researchers from the University of Cordoba developed a model to test agrivoltaic integration, finding that joint activities can lead to greater combined productivity. The study shows that photovoltaic plants and hedgerow olive groves can coexist and even benefit each other, with solar collectors generating more energy while shading cro...
Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed a strategy to improve both the performance and stability of perovskite-based solar cells. By introducing an iodine-reducing agent, they increased the efficiency and extended the lifespan of the devices.
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.
Researchers aim to harness sunlight into laser beams using photosynthetic structures from bacteria, enabling efficient and sustainable power transmission in space. The project's goal is to provide reliable energy for lunar bases, Mars missions, and terrestrial wireless power transmission.
Researchers at KAIST introduced a new hybrid device structure with organic photo-semiconductors that expand the absorption range to near-infrared, improving power conversion efficiency. The device achieved a high internal quantum efficiency of 78% in the near-infrared region and improved stability for over 1,200 hours.
Researchers design bioinspired hydrogels that mimic plant photosynthesis for clean hydrogen energy production. The study achieves significant boosts in the activity of water-splitting processes and produces more hydrogen compared to older techniques.
Researchers from Kyushu University successfully promoted singlet fission by introducing chirality into chromophores, achieving high SF efficiency in aqueous nanoparticles. This breakthrough enables applications in energy science, quantum materials, and photocatalysis.
Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a new method to visualize interfaces in organic solar cells, revealing design rules to improve efficiency. The study found that sharp donor-acceptor interfaces are key to reducing voltage losses.