Articles tagged with Solar 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.
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 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.
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
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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%.
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.
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.
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.
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.