Electrical Power
Articles tagged with Electrical Power
Renewable energy is more cost effective than direct air capture at reducing carbon, new study finds
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 find smarter lighting could cut home energy use by 15%
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.
Computer-designed thermoelectric generator achieves more than eightfold improvement in efficiency
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.
How turbulences affect wind turbines
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.
New review maps the state of bidirectional wireless power transfer technology
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.
Artificial intelligence driven controllers imitating the human brain could strengthen the grid
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.
Reduce infrastructure costs of EV adoption by upgrading grid first, then adding V2G chargers
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.
Illinois Tech engineering professor Qing-Chang Zhong elected as AAAS fellow
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.
Electric cars can make power grids more reliable (and earn owners money) – so why aren’t we doing that?
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.
Power outages linked to more emergency hospital visits for older adults
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.
IEEE honors Pitt’s Fang Peng with medal in power engineering
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.
Nanodevice produces continuous electricity from evaporation
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.
Paul Ohodnicki named new Center for Energy Director at University of Pittsburgh
Dr. Paul Ohodnicki joins as permanent director, succeeding Heng Ban; to expand energy research and education capabilities across multiple disciplines.
Explaining next-generation solar cells
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.
Slippery ions create a smoother path to blue energy
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.
Location, location, location: Model IDs best spots for offshore energy projects
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.
What’s the best way to expand the US electricity grid?
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...
Virtual battery model paves way for electric vehicle simulations
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.
Hanyang University researchers proposed novel technology for environmental infringement and sag estimation for transmission lines
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 ship will not go dark even if central control fails – new solution revolutionizes vessel electrical grids
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.
Stable and versatile optical wireless power transmission for sustainable IoT
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.
AI’s energy usage is less than previously thought
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.
FAU Engineering receives $1.5m gift to launch the ‘Ubicquia Innovation Center for Intelligent Infrastructure’
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.
Smaller, lighter electric motor developed for airplane
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.
3D-printed electrolytes keep zinc batteries stable for 8000 cycles
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 Universitat Jaume I is completing a research project to improve the integration of renewable energies with batteries into the power grid
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.
Hurricane outages: Analysis details the where, and who, of increased future power cuts
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.
In the face of extreme weather events’ devastating effects on power grids, study identifies vulnerabilities that drive prolonged outages, suggests ways to reduce disruptions
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%.
Lightning strikes 12 times per minute on Zap Energy’s century platform
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.
Flexible solid electrolyte unlocks high-performance fuel cells across extreme temperatures
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 ...
UT launches industrial affiliates program to research sustainable data center growth
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.
First multi-layer, reconfigurable batteries that can bend, adapt, and tune their own voltage
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.
Equity implications of where long-term fossil fuel plants are located found to differ based on time period studied
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.
New method could monitor corrosion and cracking in a nuclear reactor
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.
Sharing is power: do the neighbourly thing when it comes to solar
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.
A breakthrough in state-of-charge estimation for battery management of electric vehicles
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.
New study links power outages, social vulnerability in Gulf Coast
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.
Analysis documents changing trends in U.S. carbon emissions
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.
Environmental science is worth £3.3 billion to UK offshore wind
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.
Powering your phone with a laser
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...
Bulking up for solar power
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.
Naval Research Lab electronics engineer receives 2024 Robert T. Hill Best Dissertation Award
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...
SwRI breaks pressure and temperature record for sCO2 materials testing
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.
Vapour-deposited perovskite semiconductors power next generation circuits
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.
Quantitative evaluation method for energy resilience in disasters
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.
Incheon National University study pioneers breakthrough in wireless charging technology
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.
Pitt Engineering Professor Fang Peng elected to National Academy of Engineering
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.
Making an invisible electric wire: Guiding electricity with sound
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.
Swanson School of Engineering selected to receive $3.3 million to develop new electricity transmission technology
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.
New device generates electricity from moisture in the air
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.
Transportation electrification research wins $1 million DOE grant
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 develop artificial plants that purify indoor air, generate electricity
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.
New approach paves the way for harvesting and storing solar energy efficiently
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.
DOE awards $12 million to expand marine energy initiatives at Lehigh and partner universities
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.
ASU-led initiative announces first decarbonization projects for US industry
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.
Chung-Ang University researchers study real-time electricity pricing model to enhance power grid balance
A new study proposes a predictive home energy management system with a customizable bidirectional real-time pricing mechanism to promote residential demand response and reduce peak loads. The system enhances user comfort and accuracy of forecasting, while also providing cost savings.
Lehigh University researchers awarded $1 million NSF grant to investigate floating offshore wind turbines
A team of Lehigh University researchers led by Professor Muhannad Suleiman is working to develop floating offshore wind platforms that can harness both wind and wave energy. The goal is to create more efficient and resilient structures that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
$1.5M state grant kickstarts efforts to use fungal molecules in batteries, photovoltaics and electronic circuitry
A $1.5 million state grant is funding research into using fungal molecules in batteries, photovoltaics and electronic circuitry. The project, called NICER, aims to explore how these compounds can improve energy technologies, making them more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
‘Check out’ that power
The Grid Event Signature Library provides an online collection of anonymized datasets containing waveforms, enabling utilities and research institutions to understand the increasingly complex grid. Machine learning can be trained to recognize waveforms that provide early warnings of equipment malfunction, preventing blackouts and damage.