Articles tagged with Electrical Power
A new study suggests that data centers can lower average energy costs by providing grid flexibility during high-cost periods. The researchers found cost savings of up to 5% in Texas, 4% in the Mid-Atlantic region, and 2% in western U.S. states by shifting more than 20% of their consumption to non-peak hours.
Researchers have identified a mechanism to improve energy efficiency by converting wasted heat into electricity using hollow silicon nanotubes. This technology has the potential to replace rare metals with abundant silicon, leading to more efficient thermoelectric devices.
Lanzhou Jiaotong University researchers developed a droplet-based energy harvesting technology that converts secondary wastewater effluents into electricity. The system achieved high output performance and successfully powered LED lights, demonstrating its practical energy harvesting capability.
Javad Khazaei's research focuses on developing a novel geometry-based predictive control paradigm for distributed energy resources in power systems. By simplifying complex nonlinear systems using reduced-order modeling, his approach aims to slash data requirements and computational burden while maintaining accuracy. This work has promi...
A new study published in Communications Sustainability reveals that investing in renewable energy yields more combined climate and public health benefits than direct air capture. The analysis models the health and climate benefit of cost-equivalent deployments of DAC, solar, and onshore wind across US grid regions from 2020 to 2050.
Researchers found that improved lighting design combined with modern LED technology can reduce household energy use and enhance comfort. The study showed a 15.3% reduction in energy consumption by optimising lighting planning and positioning using software-based approaches.
A breakthrough in computer-designed thermoelectric generators has achieved more than eight times better efficiency than conventional designs. The innovative approach uses topology optimization to precisely control heat flow and minimize electrical resistance.
Researchers develop new concept to accurately model wind turbine loads, focusing on local gusts' impact on material fatigue. This enhances turbine design and efficiency by reducing uncertainties in load estimations.
The article reviews bidirectional capacitive power transfer, conversion topologies, resonant networks, and power control strategies. Key findings highlight the need for coordination between power electronics and coupling structures in bidirectional operation.
A new study introduces AI-based control strategies that ensure local grids remain reliable and resilient. By utilizing Artificial Neural Networks, the system can predict and compensate for grid changes in real-time, outperforming traditional control methods.
A study by researchers from the University of Michigan and international institutions recommends prioritizing grid upgrades targeting long-term demand expectations to minimize total costs. By upgrading the grid first, utilities can create a more efficient infrastructure that leverages Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) chargers more effectively.
Qing-Chang Zhong, Illinois Tech engineering professor, recognized for inventing synchronized-and-democratized (SYNDEM) architecture and pioneering virtual synchronous machines (VSM). His work reshapes how future power systems are conceived and operated to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving energy landscape.
A new study identifies the barriers to vehicle-to-grid (V2G) adoption, including coordination problems, limited infrastructure, and varying regulations. V2G technology can provide backup power during periods of high energy demand and earn EV owners money for supplying energy to the grid.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that power outages in the US are associated with increased emergency hospital visits for older adults, particularly for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The study estimated that 4,246 additional hospitalizations occurred in 2018 among adults over 65 due to power outages.
Fang Peng has made significant contributions to Z-source and modular multi-level converters for distribution and transmission networks. These technologies improve safety, flexibility, and performance in diverse energy sources. Peng's work aims to create resilient systems that can handle faults and prevent devastating wildfires.
Researchers at EPFL have developed a hydrovoltaic system that harnesses the natural effect of heat and light to control ion movement and electron flow in evaporating saltwater, producing stable and continuous electricity. The nanodevice's decoupled design allows for fine-tuning of each step in the process.
Dr. Paul Ohodnicki joins as permanent director, succeeding Heng Ban; to expand energy research and education capabilities across multiple disciplines.
Researchers at EPFL have developed a method to overcome challenges in osmotic energy systems, enabling ions to flow through a nanofluidic membrane with unprecedented speed and control. By lubricating nanopores with lipid molecules, they achieved significantly boosted ion transport and overall performance.
Researchers at ISTA discover perovskites' unique photovoltaic properties rely on structural defects, enabling long-range charge transport. This finding accelerates the transition of next-gen perovskite solar cells to real-world applications.
Researchers developed a portfolio optimization framework to maximize offshore energy production by identifying optimal locations for wind turbines and marine hydrokinetic technologies. The study found that combining these technologies in suitable locations can significantly reduce costs and increase energy stability.
A study by MIT researchers examines two policy approaches to expanding the US electricity grid: one focusing on regions with more renewable energy sources and another creating more interconnections across the country. The study found that a geographically unbalanced grid buildout would be less expensive, while reducing carbon emissions...
A new virtual battery model and charger sharing concept improve local energy markets for efficient distribution network operation. This approach enhances grid stability, reduces investment costs, and supports the shift away from fossil fuels.
Researchers propose technology using multimodal information from LiDAR, GPS, IMU, and thermal camera to reconstruct transmission line geometric profile and estimate sag. The approach can predict how the shape of the TL would change under extreme thermal conditions.
A new study introduces a pioneering power management strategy that prevents ship blackouts by distributing intelligence among devices, allowing them to operate independently. The system is significantly safer, simpler, and more flexible than traditional centralized automation.
Scientists at Institute of Science Tokyo developed an automatic and adaptive LED-based optical wireless power transmission system that can efficiently power multiple devices without interruption. The system overcomes limitations of traditional OWPT systems by adapting to varying lighting conditions and ensuring stable power delivery.
A recent study finds that artificial intelligence has a negligible effect on global greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers' analysis of US energy consumption and AI use across industries revealed that the energy usage from AI in the US equals the energy consumption for all of Iceland, but not noticeable on a global scale.
The FAU College of Engineering and Computer Science has established the 'Ubicquia Innovation Center for Intelligent Infrastructure' to develop transformative technologies. The center will empower students and faculty to create AI-First solutions for a smarter, more connected world.
The team successfully tested a hybrid Cessna 337 plane with a smaller, more efficient silicon carbide-based motor drive system. The technology reduces the overall size and weight of the plane, making it ideal for small aircraft where space is limited.
Researchers at South China University of Technology develop a method to solve unstable anode:electrolyte interfaces using digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing. The resulting batteries retain over 91% capacity after 8,000 cycles and achieve stable cycling over 2,000 hours.
The project aims to improve integration of renewable energies and batteries in the power grid using advanced control strategies. The researchers have developed predictive models and deep reinforcement learning techniques to optimize participation of grid-connected storage systems.
A new analysis from the University of Michigan predicts that hurricane-induced power outages will increase along the Atlantic coast, particularly in northern Florida and southern Atlantic states. The study finds that Hispanic, non-white, low-income, and elderly populations will be disproportionately affected by these outages.
Researchers analyzed power outage data and weather records to identify planning vulnerabilities and criticality as drivers of prolonged local outages. Targeted interventions, such as isolating critical nodes and improving operational flexibility, can reduce customer outages by up to 49.5%.
Century's sustained average power has increased 20x to 39 kilowatts, a major step toward commercial fusion power plants using repetitive pulsed power and liquid metal energy transfer. The platform achieves record-breaking operations with 100 plasma shots at 0.2 Hz.
The University of Texas at Austin has launched a new research consortium, COMPASS, to inform industry partners on options for more sustainable growth of the data center industry. The consortium aims to tackle obstacles and streamline responsible deployment of data centers across Texas.
Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a flexible solid electrolyte material with exceptional proton conductivity and hydrogen gas barrier properties, making it suitable for low- to mid-temperature fuel cells. The material enables stable operation across a wide temperature range, from -10 °C to 140 °C, and shows promise for ...
Researchers develop flexible batteries with internal voltage regulation using liquid metal microfluidic perfusion and plasma-based reversible bonding techniques. This technology addresses limitations of traditional rigid batteries.
Researchers found little evidence of disproportionate siting in Black counties, but a growing share of the Black population over time. Long-term demographic shifts after power plant openings led to higher Black population shares, with an average rise of 4% in 50-70 years.
Researchers developed a technique to monitor corrosion and cracking in nuclear reactors using real-time 3D imaging. By directly imaging material failure processes, scientists can design safer reactors that deliver higher performance.
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.
The proposed method achieves exceptional accuracy of up to 1.6% SOC error under normal conditions and corrects itself within 5 seconds when faced with initial errors, outperforming conventional approaches.
Researchers identified counties with vulnerable populations susceptible to longer-term power outages in the five-state region. Findings showed that hurricanes/tropical storms and heat waves were associated with the longest power outages, clustering in coastal and riverside counties.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University analyze historical U.S. carbon emissions trends, identifying factors that contributed to changes and offering lessons for developing countries. The study suggests that investing in efficient technologies and avoiding overreliance on coal can help avoid pitfalls encountered by the United States.
A new study by NERC finds that long-term funding has driven the UK's offshore wind industry, providing 17% of total UK electricity and supporting 32,000 jobs. The investment is expected to grow to 100,000 by 2030.
The University of Ottawa's SUNLAB has developed a simulation model for multi-junction photonic power converters, which enable the conversion of laser light into electrical power with higher efficiencies and voltages. This technology could lead to more reliable telecommunication networks, reduce costs by enhancing systems performance, a...
Researchers at Kyoto University have created a new artificial heterostructure device that mimics broken spatial and time-reversal symmetry, enabling new bulk photovoltaic effects. The device shows promise for next-generation solar cells with improved efficiency and multifunctionality.
Christian Jones, a Naval Research Lab electronics engineer, received the 2024 Robert T. Hill Best Dissertation Award for his dissertation on robust and efficient structure-based radar receive processing. His research focuses on improving the robustness and efficiency of advanced radar signal processing techniques to provide warfighters...
Researchers from Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) have set a new temperature record for testing materials in high-pressure environments. The team successfully achieved unprecedented conditions of 1,150 degrees Celsius at 300 bar using a modified autoclave setup.
Researchers developed a technology to produce high-quality p-type transistors using vapor-deposited tin-based perovskites, achieving high mobility and low power consumption. The innovation enables large-area device arrays and reduces manufacturing costs.
Researchers developed a quantitative evaluation method for energy resilience in disasters by simulating power outage scenarios in buildings with solar power generators and storage batteries. The study found that energy resilience is highest when the power outage coincides with daylight hours.
Researchers at Incheon National University have pioneered a novel resonant tuning rectifier (RTR) for parallel compensated receivers in wireless power transfer. The RTR enhances efficiency via dynamic frequency adaptation, reducing circuit impedance and minimizing interference with other devices.
Professor Fang Peng has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering for his contributions to high-powered electronic technologies. He joins a distinguished group of Pitt faculty members who have made significant impacts in their fields.
Electric sparks can now be guided around obstacles and hit specific spots using ultrasonic waves, opening up new possibilities for atmospheric sciences, biological procedures, and circuit power.
The University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering is leading a $3.3 million project to optimize HVDC converter design for increased power density and decreased cost. The project aims to help affordably integrate more renewable energy generation onto the grid via HVDC lines.
Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a paper-based wearable device that captures moisture from the air and converts it into electricity. The device uses bacterial spores to break down water molecules into ions, generating an electric charge.
Binghamton University researchers have created artificial plants that can capture 90% of carbon dioxide from indoor air, reducing levels and generating oxygen. The plants use photosynthesis to drive the process, with an additional power generation capability of around 140 microwatts.
The Department of Energy awarded nearly $1 million to researchers at the University of Arkansas to develop a prototype for high-voltage power modules that can handle higher voltages and temperatures. The goal is to create smaller, more efficient, and more reliable fast-charging stations for electric vehicles.
Researchers developed a new approach for harvesting and storing solar energy efficiently using molecular solar energy storage systems. The system increases solar energy storage efficiency by more than one order of magnitude.
The Atlantic Marine Energy Center (AMEC) will develop new research projects, infrastructure, and educational programs using the funding. Lehigh University will lead two research projects focused on tidal turbine blades and real-time stable marine energy microgrid power management.
The ASU-led initiative, EPIXC, aims to develop cost-effective technologies to replace fossil fuel-based industrial process heating with clean electricity. Five jump-start projects were selected to advance innovations in electrified industrial process heating, covering various sectors and temperature ranges.