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.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
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.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new study found that affordable solar panels are being used in rural Ethiopian villages, offering a healthy alternative to kerosene lamps and supporting education. However, uncertified panels break easily and lack maintenance support, creating environmental pollution.
Researchers from Lehigh University have developed a material that promises over 190% quantum efficiency in solar cells, exceeding the theoretical limit for silicon-based materials. The material's 'intermediate band states' enable efficient absorption of sunlight and production of charge carriers.
Researchers at ICFO have fabricated a new four-terminal tandem organic solar cell with a high power conversion efficiency of 16.94%, achieving a significant improvement over previous records for four-terminal tandem devices. The device features an ultrathin transparent silver electrode, enabling efficient light transmission and operation.
Researchers from UNC-Chapel Hill develop a process using semiconductors and organic compounds to convert CO2 into carbon monoxide, producing a less harmful greenhouse gas. The method uses artificial photosynthesis and achieves 87% efficiency in converting CO2 into carbon monoxide.
Researchers at DGIST developed a device that converts frictional force into electrical energy, removing surface contamination on solar cells. The technology enhances solar power generation efficiency by up to 90% and eliminates the need for manual cleaning.
A new study by Stanford researchers finds that factory and warehouse rooftops can host solar resources to fill the solar equity gap in disadvantaged communities. Non-residential rooftops generate 38% less electricity in poorer areas than wealthier ones, but have large unused capacity to produce solar power.
A Washington State University-led study found that widespread, extreme temperature events can capture greater solar radiation and higher wind speeds to help power grids. This analysis suggests using more renewable energy at these times could reduce strain on grids during increased energy demand.
A tandem approach for better solar cells involves combining perovskite-based photovoltaics with traditional silicon to minimize losses and increase efficiency. The technology has shown promise in laboratory settings but faces significant practical challenges, including reliability and scalability issues.
A team of chemists at UNC-Chapel Hill has developed a unique approach to harnessing sunlight to produce hydrogen gas. By inducing catalysts to self-assemble into globules, they create a more efficient system for splitting water into its constituent elements - hydrogen and oxygen.
A new study by Cornell University researchers suggests that combining cryptocurrency mining with green hydrogen technology can significantly boost renewable energy production. The approach, known as the 'dynamic duo,' has the potential to accelerate wind and solar capacity growth across the US.
Researchers have developed a new method to manufacture perovskite solar cells, which can convert electricity more efficiently than current silicon panels. The addition of dimethylammonium formate enables coating outside the small box, increasing efficiency and stability, with potential applications in electric vehicles and other devices.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory and University of North Carolina Chapel Hill develop a room-temperature conversion reaction strategy to convert carbon dioxide into methanol. The process employs a recyclable organic reagent and sunlight, producing an easily storable and transportable liquid fuel.
Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology developed a new material for perovskite solar cells, which exhibits better power conversion efficiencies and operational stability. The material, synthesised through polymerisation, can be used in both regular and inverted architecture solar cells.
Researchers have developed a new method to visualize the quantum mechanical wave function of excitons in organic semiconductors. This understanding is essential for developing more efficient materials with organic semiconductors. The technique, known as photoemission exciton tomography, provides insights into the behavior of excitons i...
Scientists at the University of Cambridge discovered that making solar cells super-efficient is harder than thought, but found alternative ways to improve energy capture. They proposed flexible, semi-transparent panels that can fold up and be integrated into various settings.
Researchers developed a machine learning method to estimate solar radiation components using sunshine duration data from over 2,453 weather stations in China. The approach leverages data augmentation and LightGBM machine learning model for accurate predictions, making it universally applicable.
Kobe University scientists develop material guideline for high-efficiency PV cells, OLED displays and anti-cancer therapies by understanding energy transfer between molecules. The research enables aligned electron spin states to combine low-energy photons into a high-energy photon.
A Dartmouth Engineering-led study discovered a new high-performance solar absorber material that is stable and earth-abundant. The researchers used a unique high-throughput computational screening method to evaluate approximately 40,000 candidate materials, leading to the discovery of the Zintl-phosphide BaCd2P2.
Citizens in Denmark, Germany, Poland, and Portugal prefer decentralized renewable energy systems with high rooftop solar shares. They value low electricity prices and reduced dependence on imports over technology preferences.
A team of UCF researchers has received a $1.5 million grant from the US Department of Energy to develop a novel metallization process for solar cells. The goal is to increase efficiency and lower production costs, making solar energy more accessible.
Scientists created a method to study variations in power output from solar PV plants over time, accounting for distinct power fluctuations across different geographical areas. The grid integration challenge arises when including variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar into the power grid.
EPFL researchers have discovered that nanoscale devices harnessing the hydroelectric effect can harvest electricity from the evaporation of fluids with higher ion concentrations than purified water. This breakthrough reveals a wide range of applications for hydrovoltaic devices, including powering sensors and generating clean water.
The National University of Singapore (NUS) team engineered a new cyanate-integrated perovskite solar cell that achieves a certified world-record power conversion efficiency of 27.1%, surpassing other multi-junction solar cells. The triple-junction perovskite/Si tandem solar cell remains stable and efficient even after extended testing.
A team of experts at PNNL developed a new tool that sorts and prioritizes cyber threats on the fly, giving grid operators a clear blueprint to identify and address the biggest threats first. The approach uses hybrid attack graphs and optimization to reduce the number of potential attacks from thousands to fewer than 100.
The Zero-Energy Switchable Radiative Cooler (ZESRC) is a temperature-responsive solution that balances building temperatures sustainably. Field experiments demonstrate its effectiveness across seasons, reducing energy consumption by 14.3% compared to other devices.
A team of researchers from Pusan National University developed a method to enhance the stability of perovskite solar cells using crown ether B18C6. This approach resulted in improved power conversion efficiency and resistance to moisture, addressing key issues such as lead leakage and degradation due to environmental factors. The study...
Researchers at UNIST have developed a scalable and efficient photoelectrode module for green hydrogen production, overcoming challenges of efficiency, stability, and scalability. The team's innovative approach achieved unprecedented efficiency, durability, and scalability in producing green hydrogen using solar energy.
A team of researchers has discovered ways to optimize efficiency and control degradation in perovskite solar cells by engineering their nanoscale structure. The study provides new insights on how to make high-efficiency perovskite solar cells and offers a roadmap for improving their performance.
Researchers developed innovative Au@Cu7S4 yolk@shell nanocrystals capable of producing hydrogen when exposed to both visible and NIR light, achieving a peak quantum yield of 9.4% in the visible range and 7.3% in the NIR range for hydrogen production.
A team led by Prof. Wolf Gero Schmidt used Hawk supercomputer to study how strategic impurities in solar cells can improve performance. They discovered that certain defects can improve exciton transfer, leading to more energy captured. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and climate-friendly energy production.
The NREL-led workshop emphasizes the importance of mitigating degradation rates for clean technologies, which will play a crucial role in meeting future energy needs. The researchers recommend increasing transparency and standardization of reliability data, as well as developing standards for various renewable energy technologies.
A new study suggests China will need to build eight to ten times more wind and solar power installations than in 2022 to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The report also highlights the importance of coordinating land use policies nationwide, with a focus on areas within 100 miles of major population centers.
Researchers at Uppsala University and First Solar European Technology Center have achieved a world record of 23.64 per cent efficiency in CIGS solar cells, surpassing the previous record of 23.35 per cent. The study demonstrates that CIGS thin-film technology is a competitive alternative as a stand-alone solar cell.
A team at TU Graz has developed a parabolic trough collector with cost-effective photovoltaic cells that generate both solar power and thermal energy. The innovation uses industrial production methods and optimises cooling to increase usability of waste heat.
A groundbreaking research breakthrough has led to the development of the world's most efficient quantum dot (QD) solar cell, retaining its efficiency even after long-term storage. The newly-developed organic PQD solar cells exhibit both high efficiency and stability simultaneously.
A new study shows that UK solar parks, if managed correctly, can support insect pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The availability of a diverse range of flowering plant species within the solar farms is crucial for increased pollinator abundance and biodiversity.
Physicists at Paderborn University have developed a new solar cell design using tetracene, which significantly increases efficiency. The introduction of defects in the organic layer accelerates exciton transfer to silicon, reducing energy losses and increasing overall yield of usable energy.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered how proteins deform to create efficient transport routes for electrons, powered by solar energy. This finding could lead to more efficient solar cells and batteries.
A Princeton-led study found that most common clean energy procurement strategies are ineffective in reducing long-term emissions in the US. However, one approach called temporal matching can have a substantial effect when companies purchase clean energy hourly to match their real-time energy consumption.
Researchers developed a chemically protective cathode interlayer using amine-functionalized perylene diimide, which stabilizes perovskite solar cells. The novel solution-processed PDINN cathode interlayer achieved impressive performance with over 81% retention and record-high bias-free solar hydrogen production rate.
The AMS 104th Annual Meeting will focus on climate change research, mitigation, and adaptation, with key discussions on overcoming barriers to implementation. The meeting features numerous scientific conferences and symposia covering topics like climate variability, air pollution meteorology, AI for environmental science, and more.
A recent study reveals that solar energy facilities planted with native grasses and wildflowers can rapidly support thriving insect populations. Total insect abundance tripled at the studied sites, providing additional pollination services to adjacent agricultural fields.
Researchers at KAUST Solar Center have developed a roadmap for commercializing perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells, which combine efficient light absorption and long-term stability. The technology has the potential to meet Saudi Arabia's solar targets and exceed $10 billion in market value within a decade.
Engineers have discovered a method to increase the stability of perovskite solar cells using bulky additives, which could enable the production of cheaper solar panels. The study suggests that larger molecules with specific configurations are most effective at preventing defects in the cells.
The report highlights key applications and pathways to commercialization for emerging PV technologies, including new materials and device concepts. It also discusses strategies to exceed current limits in solar PV energy conversion and challenges facing efforts to scale up globally.
A KAIST research team developed a new conductive polymer material that achieved both high electrical performance and elasticity, introducing the world’s highest-performing stretchable organic solar cell. The team built a device that can be stretched up to 40% during operation, demonstrating its applicability for wearable devices.
A novel transparent spectral converter, GdPO4-GC:Eu3+/Pr3+, absorbs UV photons and re-emits them as visible light, increasing photovoltaic devices' conversion efficiency. This technology shields PCs from UV damage and enhances their sensitivity to UV photons.
EtaVolt's innovative technology rejuvenates old solar cells with intense sunlight, restoring performance and protecting against light and heat damage. This game-changing solution extends the operational lifespan of solar panels, reducing energy loss and e-waste.
A new study finds that building solar farms in arid regions can effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more viable solution for addressing the climate crisis. By contrast, natural forests have a limited impact on carbon dioxide absorption due to their low albedo and high energy absorption rates.
Researchers propose optimising campus solar PV system to support over 200 electric vehicles with free or nominal charging facilities. This could reduce annual electricity costs by more than 9% while helping lower peak power demand by at least 12%.
Researchers found that compound energy droughts can occur nationwide, with varying frequencies and durations across regions. Understanding these droughts will help grid planners prepare for energy storage needs and inform deployment of long-duration energy storage projects.
Scientists at Linköping University have created stable and environmentally friendly organic solar cells by incorporating untreated kraft lignin into the electron transport layer. This innovation improves the overall efficiency and reliability of organic solar cells, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
A new relationship between the Sun's magnetic field and its sunspot cycle has been discovered, enabling scientists to predict when the peak in solar activity will occur. The analysis indicates that the maximum intensity of solar cycle 25 is imminent and likely to occur within a year.
Photovoltaic fields can mitigate climate change faster than afforestation by 50 times in semiarid land, while still offering benefits in humid lands. Forests provide additional ecosystem and social services beyond climate regulation.
Northwestern University researchers have created a new perovskite solar cell that achieves a National Renewable Energy Lab certified efficiency of 25.1%, surpassing earlier records. The breakthrough is made possible by a combination of two molecules, one addressing surface recombination and the other disrupting interface recombination.
A new solar-powered device can turn polluted water into clean drinking water and hydrogen fuel, addressing global energy and water crises. The device uses solar power to split water molecules, producing clean water and hydrogen with minimal energy loss.
Researchers developed indoor solar panels to power smart home devices, identifying efficient PV materials and minimizing heat production. Gallium indium phosphide shows promise but is expensive, while perovskite minerals and organic films offer a cost-effective solution.
A UNIGE team has developed a super-model to simulate the spread of three green technologies in Swiss municipalities by 2050. The results show that Switzerland is unlikely to achieve zero net carbon emissions by 2050 without significant policy changes, highlighting the need for increased efforts and updated policies.
The Beckman Institute's new Electrolab robot automates electrochemical experiments and data analysis, reducing manual effort and time for researchers. The instrument can explore alternative power sources and analyze chemical reactions to combat climate change.
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology have developed organic solar cells with record efficiencies and discovered a link between molecular structure and outdoor stability. The study found that fluorine-bearing functional end groups and long hydrocarbon side-chains enhance outdoor stability, protecting the cells...