Articles tagged with Solar Energy
Researchers at NUS developed a new heat-resistant material to strengthen the weakest link in perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells. The cross-linked molecular layer improved durability and efficiency over 1,200 hours of continuous operation.
A new study finds that floating solar panel systems can have varying effects on aquatic ecosystems depending on the reservoir's depth, circulation dynamics, and fish species. The cooling effect of the water can boost panel efficiency, but increased variability in habitat suitability for aquatic species is also observed.
A McGill University-led research team has demonstrated the feasibility of thermally driven reverse osmosis (TDRO) for desalinating seawater, utilizing low-grade heat from solar thermal and geothermal energy. The cost-effective technique could improve access to water and increase sustainability in infrastructure.
Researchers at UC Davis invent a Stirling engine that can harness the natural warmth of the ground and cold depths of space to generate mechanical power. The device has been shown to produce up to 400 milliwatts of power per square meter, with potential applications in ventilating greenhouses and residential buildings.
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has achieved a breakthrough in perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells, focusing on improving efficiency, stability and scalability. The team aims to raise the energy conversion efficiency from 34% to 40%, while promoting industry-academia-research collaboration.
Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have developed ultrablack copper cobaltate nanoneedles that can absorb up to 99.5% of light, surpassing existing carbon nanotubes which absorb around 99%. This breakthrough could significantly improve the efficiency and competitiveness of concentrated solar power plants.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered ultrafast quantum light in halide perovskites, which can be harnessed for future photonic technologies. The findings suggest a practical and affordable route to explore ultrafast quantum technology.
The study found that about 70% of Kansas counties have some form of regulations, with 40% having enabling regulations to accommodate wind development. Counties in western and southern parts of the state tend to have more restrictive regulations, while rural areas with agricultural economies are more likely to have enabling regulations.
Researchers at PolyU developed an innovative parameter to evaluate photoactive materials for ST-OPVs, advancing high-performance devices with low-cost production and environmental sustainability. Record light utilisation efficiency of 6.05% was achieved in semi-transparent solar cells.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a hybrid device that combines light-harvesting organic polymers with bacterial enzymes to convert sunlight, water and carbon dioxide into formate, a fuel that can drive further chemical transformations. The new 'semi-artificial leaf' mimics photosynthesis and avoids toxic semico...
Thick-film organic photovoltaics (OPVs) hold promise for high-efficiency, scalable, and cost-effective solar cells. The study establishes guidelines for designing high-performance OPVs by bridging the gap between laboratory achievements and industrial manufacturing.
Researchers have identified key barriers to safely extending the life of solar panels and decreasing waste. One major challenge is the low cost of new panels undercutting the resale market for used systems.
A new study suggests that well-managed solar farms with wildflower margins could double bumblebee numbers within themselves. However, their benefits are largely constrained to the local site and have a limited impact on wider landscapes.
Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology develop a passivation strategy to improve stability and efficiency of fully inorganic perovskite solar cells. The innovation enables the creation of stable 2D/3D heterostructures, achieving record-breaking efficiencies and long-term stability.
A University of Sydney-led team has created the largest and most efficient triple-junction perovskite-perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell reported, demonstrating high efficiency and durability. The 16 cm² cell achieved an independently certified steady-state power conversion efficiency of 23.3 percent.
A new study by the University of Surrey finds that solar energy has become the world's cheapest source of power, with costs ranging from £0.02 per unit in sunny countries. The research highlights the increasing adoption of hybrid systems combining solar panels with batteries to create a more reliable and dispatchable source of power.
A groundbreaking review article reveals that solar-driven water electrolysis can be used to produce high-value chemicals sustainably, transforming the industry from cost-losing to economically compelling. The paper argues that introducing high-value syntheses into solar electrolysis systems could revolutionize the field.
Utrecht University has acquired full ownership of the Solar Farm Bunnik, generating over 16GWh of renewable electricity annually. The move aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and contribute to the university's ambitious CO₂-neutral target by 2030.
Researchers at Aarhus University found that vertical solar panels can generate electricity without compromising crop yields, even with reduced shade. The system requires less land than separate installations and is better received by the public due to its innovative design.
Researchers created phase diagrams for organic solar cells and found that mixing behavior depends on temperature, requiring additional parameters for accurate prediction. The work could accelerate the development of improved materials for high-efficiency solar cells.
A new study from Rice University introduces a novel solar thermal-boosted organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system that can recover 60-80% more electricity annually from waste heat in data centers. The approach achieves over 8% higher ORC efficiency during sunny peak hours and lowers the cost of electricity by 5.5-16.5%.
A study published in the journal Joule estimates that space-based solar power could reduce Earth-based renewable energy costs by 7-15% and offset up to 80% of wind and solar power by 2050. The heliostat design, with higher potential for continuous solar energy capture, would outperform wind and solar power.
A new study suggests that space-based solar power could reduce Europe's need for land-based renewable energy by up to 80%, cutting energy storage needs by over two-thirds. The technology also saves money by reducing the cost of the entire power system, with estimated annual savings of €35.9 billion.
A new study reveals that households with solar panels can increase their returns by selling surplus power directly to their neighbours through peer-to-peer energy sharing. This approach helps stabilize the electricity grid and negotiates a better price for households compared to traditional grid export arrangements.
Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a new type of solar thermoelectric generator that can harness thermal energy in addition to sunlight. The device is 15 times more efficient than current state-of-the-art devices, making it a promising source of renewable energy.
A new Stanford University study finds that most US households (60%) can reduce their electricity costs by 15% and weather local or regional blackouts with solar-battery systems. The systems would meet about half of the household's electricity needs on average, allowing them to save money or see no rise in costs.
Researchers developed a silane coupling agent strategy that improves interfacial adhesion and charge extraction in wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells. This approach reduces defects and non-radiative recombination, leading to high efficiency and stability.
A new study shows that climate neutrality is achievable in Europe by 2050 through smart solar technologies and self-sufficiency. The study demonstrates that Europe can achieve net-zero emissions with an average cost increase of only 2.1% compared to the most cost-effective scenario without self-sufficiency.
The EU-funded SUNER-C project developed a technological roadmap and community mapping tool to accelerate the transition of solar fuels and chemicals from lab to industrial applications, fostering collaboration among stakeholders and supporting the EU's carbon neutrality objectives.
Researchers developed highly efficient all-inorganic perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells using a novel TbCl3 doping strategy. This innovation integrates seamlessly with silicon solar cells, achieving remarkable efficiencies and contributing to sustainable energy future.
Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University have made a groundbreaking discovery in organic solar cells, achieving 20% power conversion efficiency using non-halogenated solvents. The team's novel additive engineering strategy enables precise control of film morphology, leading to enhanced crystallinity and long-term stability.
The Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) has developed a proposal for the
Researchers have developed perovskite solar cells that can effectively convert indoor lighting into electrical power. The cells achieved a power conversion efficiency rate of 38.7% under dim light conditions, making them suitable for charging devices in various environments, including offices.
Researchers developed models to quantify the risk of catastrophic blackouts during hurricanes and forecast climate impacts on energy systems. Their work aims to inform grid upgrades and navigate clean energy targets while maintaining reliability.
A new study by Virginia Tech researchers found that large-scale solar farms have a complex impact on nearby property values. Agricultural land within two miles of the site saw a 19.4% increase in value, while residential homes lost an average of 4.8%. The negative impact was more pronounced in counties with conservative leanings.
A new study reveals seven forms of corruption in California's solar market, including favoritism and tax evasion, which undermine the potential for a just energy transition. The research implicates solar energy in corruption practices affecting communities, policymaking, and regulation.
New research led by Princeton University demonstrates that Australia can fully decarbonize its domestic and energy export economies by 2060 while avoiding harm to important areas for biodiversity outcomes. The study proposes a 'traffic-light' approach for siting renewable infrastructure, identifying suitable lands for development and t...
A new study from Colorado State University reveals that photovoltaic (PV) arrays in grasslands can improve soil moisture levels and increase plant growth, particularly during dry years. The research found a 90% increase in grass production on the east side of panels compared to neighboring open sites.
A new solar X-ray detector on board the MSS-1B satellite achieves high accuracy in detecting spectral characteristics of X-ray solar flares. The instrument features a wide energy range, high count rate, and excellent spectral resolution.
A study by Tohoku University found that combining rooftop solar panels with electric vehicles as batteries can supply 85% of Japan's electricity demand and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 87%. The 'PV + EV' system could lower energy costs by 33% by 2030, providing a promising pathway for Japan to achieve carbon neutrality.
Researchers developed fluorescent dyes based on nitrogen-rich pyrazinacenes with strong, tunable fluorescence between the visible and NIR/SWIR regions. The dyes exhibit redox-responsive properties, shifting emission spectra to longer wavelengths for infrared applications.
Researchers develop a bulk passivation technique adding TEMPO to perovskite films, boosting efficiency beyond 20% and maintaining performance for several months. The approach is fast, solvent-free, and compatible with roll-to-roll processing, making it promising for large-scale production.
A new study by SwRI scientists reveals that solar energetic particles (SEPs) can be twice as fast as the solar wind and are more effectively accelerated to higher energies due to their distinct velocity distribution. This discovery is crucial for understanding radiation hazards to astronauts.
Researchers introduce a redox energy barrier management approach to boost tin-lead perovskite solar cell performance. The innovation uses an organometallic complex to protect Sn2+ from oxidation and passivate defects.
Researchers highlight the need to study floating solar projects' impacts on birds and other wildlife, aiming to avoid negative effects while promoting ecological benefits. The study suggests examining bird behavior interactions with floating PV systems and identifying risks and solution pathways for coexistence.
Scientists at UC Riverside are investigating plasmonic materials that can transfer energy when struck by light. Their findings could lead to sensors capable of detecting molecules at trace levels and other technologies with practical applications.
A recent study from the University of Surrey found that China's Plan on Clean Energy Accommodation has resulted in a decline in green total factor productivity. This measure reflects a region's ability to achieve economic growth while minimizing resource consumption and environmental degradation.
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
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...
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 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.