Researchers discovered that inserting potassium atoms into amorphous silica creates a negative charge by forming a SiO5 structure, which accumulates electrons. This design guidance improves the reliability and longevity of vibrational energy harvesters.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that government policies played a crucial role in Denmark's widespread adoption of wind energy. The study analyzed the impact of policies on small producers' decisions to shut down or upgrade aging equipment and found that well-designed policies were essential for the industry's growth.
Researchers at the University of Oldenburg generated turbulent flows in a wind tunnel, simulating conditions similar to those encountered in real storms. The team discovered that the wind tunnel flow combines two components into perfect, realistic storm turbulence.
A new study suggests that renewable energy targets can actually exacerbate sustainability issues, such as rolling blackouts in California. The researchers argue for a more nuanced approach, considering trade-offs between different policy instruments and long-term objectives.
Seawater air-conditioning (SWAC) has been shown to provide the same cooling energy as 21 wind turbines or a solar power plant the size of 68 football fields, making it a viable alternative to conventional air-conditioning. The technology can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption in cooling systems.
Researchers at Linköping University have developed an organic redox flow battery with a water-based electrolyte, increasing the energy density. The battery uses conducting polymer PEDOT electrodes and quinone molecules, making it safe, cheap, and recyclable.
A new study suggests that investing in climate-positive recovery plans for the global energy system could put the world on track to meet the Paris Agreement goals. Investing just a tenth of the $12 trillion pledged in stimulus packages over five years in climate-friendly policies could achieve net zero carbon energy by mid-century.
KAUST researchers developed a statistical model providing the best wind forecast yet for Saudi Arabia, aiming to increase renewable energy in the grid and reach 9 gigawatts of installed wind energy by 2030. The model uses advanced statistical approaches to jointly model wind speed and direction, showing improved prediction performance.
Researchers in China have designed a nanogenerator that captures light breezes, generating electricity through the triboelectric effect. The device can power small electronic devices and is suitable for nature reserves or cities, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional wind turbines.
A new UMass Amherst program, Elevating Equity Values in the Transition of the Energy system (ELEVATE), brings together experts in energy technology and social justice to develop pathways for a sustainable energy transition that promotes socioeconomic equity. The program aims to create technological and policy solutions that reimagine t...
A study from California Polytechnic State University finds that offshore winds in the Central Coast increase when demand is greatest, making them an ideal candidate to fill the gap left by solar and on-shore wind energy production. The study suggests that offshore wind energy could play a crucial role in meeting California's ambitious ...
The ELECTRODE project aims to develop more efficient methods for storing renewable energy, a crucial step towards phasing out fossil fuels. Researchers will create porous photopolymer structures using 3D printing, increasing the effect of fuel cells.
Researchers from University of Turku and Helsinki have conducted a review on wind farm impacts on bats in the Baltic Sea region, finding that impacts have barely been investigated due to limited data. The study aims to monitor bats for several years to define high-risk areas and design measures to reduce wind turbine impact.
Researchers investigated the impact of temperature on solar and wind energy production in Australia, finding small annual changes but significant effects during peak temperature days. The study aimed to inform electricity sector planning for reliability in different climate conditions.
A new study finds that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to producing cleaner energy based on cost alone could create social inequalities. Countries transitioning to zero carbon should consider socio-economic impacts, such as the potential disruption to workforce and labor market, before making decisions.
A new DOE grant will support research on developing efficient electrochemical systems for renewable energy generation and storage. Dr. Eranda Nikolla's project aims to design catalytically active sites in non-stoichiometric, mixed metal oxides for oxygen reduction and evolution.
A new study finds that transitioning to renewable energy in Europe can reduce land requirements by prioritizing offshore wind power and large solar parks. The study suggests that these alternatives can achieve a fully renewable electricity supply while minimizing additional costs.
Researchers found that current battery technology is too expensive for seasonal storage, but alternative technologies like hydrogen storage can provide cost-effective solutions. The study's findings may help policy makers develop more efficient renewable energy systems.
A frigatebird chick suffering from a viral infection has won the 7th BMC Ecology Image competition. The winning image showcases the intricate relationships between species and their environments. David Costantini's powerful photo highlights pressing issues in ecology, including viral outbreaks affecting bird populations.
Researchers from FSU's FAMU-FSU College of Engineering developed a new study to analyze wind resource characteristics across nine locations in Florida. They used advanced tools to capture wind energy at higher elevations, where wind speeds are faster, making it potentially feasible for wind farms in the state.
New offshore wind projects in the UK are expected to produce electricity very cheaply, potentially reducing household energy bills. The projects will operate with 'negative subsidies,' paying money back to the government and then passing it through to consumers.
A comprehensive blueprint for Saudi Arabia's national wind energy strategy has been developed, aiming to reach 16 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2030. The plan leverages high-resolution modeling, unique wind and weather observations, and cost analysis to guide the optimal buildout of wind turbines.
The project aims to store green surplus energy in giant underground water balloons hidden beneath 'moving hills', demonstrating a new technology that can optimize energy storage for a future with more renewable energy. The test facility will be built with a focus on abrasion testing and lifetime tests for the membrane.
Researchers found that shared values are insufficient for mutual trust between stakeholders; beliefs and emotions play a stronger role. Improved awareness of each other's views and emotions can benefit collaboration and find solutions to the conflict.
Researchers at Stony Brook University will develop simulation tools to optimize offshore wind farm layouts and reduce the levelized cost of energy by up to 15 percent using advanced turbine controls and Artificial Intelligence. The project aims to bring down the cost of developing offshore wind energy in the U.S. and support its growth.
A recent study found that the Maryland Wind Energy Area, where an offshore wind farm is planned, serves as a crucial migration corridor for Atlantic sturgeon and striped bass. The development of wind turbines in this area could create habitat around which fish linger, potentially disrupting their migrations.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a 'smart' system that controls energy storage and release in wind turbines to regulate the national grid. The system uses variable speed rotors to keep pace with electricity demand, reducing the risk of power cuts and supporting widespread wind energy use.
Researchers at Stanford University have devised a model that considers the impact of interactions between developers and landowners on the success and cost of wind farms. The model highlights three actions developers could take to increase landowner acceptance and ultimately reduce costs, including community engagement meetings, prelim...
A Romanian research team found that wind farms along the Black Sea coast are killing large numbers of migrating bats, including those from distant regions. The scientists recommend implementing turn-off times during migration months to reduce bat mortality and protect populations.
A study by Jacek Kapica identifies three indicators to help find the perfect size for renewable wind and solar energy storage facilities while optimizing energy harvesting. Increasing power reliability influences the nominal power of energy generation units at a given size of storage.
A new study maps the potential for 'solar-wind-water' strategies in West Africa, finding that flexibly dispatched hydropower can increase renewable power generation by over 30%. Hydropower plants can support solar and wind energy, reducing CO2 emissions and environmental impact
A new study by Stanford University scientist Rob Jackson found that daily carbon dioxide emissions have dropped by as much as 17 percent globally during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study estimates an impact on annual emissions of 4 to 7 percent, the biggest drop since World War II.
Researchers found that US wind plants experience relatively low performance decline over time, with a 13% drop in 17 years. Performance drops significantly after the production tax credit window closes, but at a lower rate than European wind fleets.
Researchers at the University of Southampton have created a global dataset of major renewable energy sites, mapping solar and wind farms worldwide. The study shows that Europe, North America, and East Asia dominate the renewable energy sector, with data correlating well with official statistics.
A new study by the University of the Basque Country confirms that offshore wind turbines can produce hydrogen fuel with significant increases in energy generation. The research found that adding vortex generators and Gurney flaps to wind turbines improved aerodynamics, resulting in 2.5% higher annual energy production.
Researchers at Purdue University are working on a method to fabricate wind turbine substructures and anchors using 3D-printed concrete, which could reduce material costs and increase design flexibility. The team is collaborating with RCAM Technologies to develop concrete additive manufacturing for offshore wind energy technology.
A UMass Lowell researcher has received a $1.4 million federal grant to develop a novel solution for detecting damage in wind turbine blades using sound monitoring technology.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have created a catalyst that enables the production of ammonia at just 50°C, using half the energy required by existing techniques. This breakthrough has significant implications for sustainable agricultural food production and reduces carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel use.
A new sensor system developed at Saarland University uses AI and machine learning techniques to identify the exact cause of disturbances in industrial plants. The system can distinguish between useful signals and false alarms, reducing operationally disruptive and costly responses.
A UC Davis study found that promoting e-cigarettes as a healthier alternative to combustible cigarettes backfired, resulting in increased social valuations of e-cigarettes as bad or worse than cigarettes. The study analyzed over 1,200 documents and conducted interviews with policymakers, public health advocates, and industry leaders.
A study at the University of Gothenburg found that wind turbine noise influences people's perception of restorative effects of sleep and has a small but significant effect on dream sleep. Participants who lived near wind turbines reported worse sleep quality during quiet nights.
A study using supercomputers found that the US can double or quadruple its installed wind turbine capacity without significantly affecting local climate. The researchers used simulations to model the impact of wind turbines on local climates, finding that adding more turbines in a given area would have minimal effects.
USC scientists have developed a new redox flow battery that stores electricity in solutions, sorts electrons, and releases power when needed. The technology uses iron sulfate and anthraquinone disulfonic acid (AQDS) to store electrochemical energy, with advantages over competitors in terms of cost, durability, and scalability.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab are developing fiber optic sensors to monitor offshore wind operations and underground natural gas storage. These sensors aim to detect issues such as gearbox failure and marine mammal activity, improving the reliability and safety of these systems.
A new machine-learning algorithm helps design lightweight glass compositions that are very stiff, suitable for next-gen materials in vehicles and wind turbines. The goal is to reduce weight while maintaining strength, leading to fuel efficiency improvements.
A researcher at Samara Polytech has designed a wind-powered generator with irregular cross-section conductors that reduces mass and dimensions, increasing efficiency. The design has been patented and implemented in electric machines with integrated electronic units and liquid cooling.
A study by UCI researchers found that reductions in ground ozone resulted in $600 million in increased production annually, with yields projected to rise by 5-20% for certain crops like wine grapes and table grapes. The study highlights the benefits of air quality standards for California's high-value crops.
A study on US public perceptions of energy mixes found that most participants underestimated oil and gas contributions and overestimated wind and solar energy. Participants showed a strong preference for a steep increase in solar and wind energy and a decrease in fossil fuels by 2050.
A collaborative research team has developed a system that uses less expensive materials to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, comparable to the current most popular system but without precious metals. This advance holds promise for affordable renewable energy storage and could increase hydrogen production rates nearly tenfold.
The American Physical Society's March Meeting explores the challenges women face in physics, including data on bachelor's and doctoral degrees, faculty positions, and career advancement. Programs like Women Supporting Women in the Sciences provide resources and support to empower women in STEM careers.
Cold pools can trap pollutants, reduce wind speeds, and cause freezing rain, posing serious health risks in urban areas. The study aims to improve forecasting of these events to ensure a stable electrical grid and lower energy costs.
Researchers at Cornell University found that quadrupling wind turbine capacity can achieve a 20% share of US electricity from wind power without expanding to new lands. This scenario eliminates approximately 825 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions by 2030.
A recent study suggests that China's coastal provinces can be powered by offshore wind farms, potentially increasing the country's wind power capacity to meet its Paris Agreement goals. The research estimates that offshore wind could provide up to 6,000 terawatt-hours of electricity, equivalent to 200% of total energy demand.
A new method predicts how extreme climate events affect energy systems with a focus on renewable energy sources. Future climate events can have a considerable impact, leading to power supply reliability reductions of up to 16%. Collaboration between energy system experts and climate researchers is necessary for optimization.
A study published in Physical Review X reveals that schools of fish with specific formations can receive significant energy savings and improved speeds through hydrodynamically influenced collective movement. Diamond lattice formations offer the greatest hydrodynamic advantage, while geometry plays a crucial role in performance.
The global low-carbon revolution faces a significant threat unless new governance mechanisms are established to ensure a sustainable supply of rare minerals and metals. The extraction and processing of these materials poses environmental and social risks, and their growing demand could lead to shortages and market instability.
The Stanford report outlines a roadmap for 143 countries to transition to 100% clean, renewable energy by 2050, reducing worldwide energy needs by 57%, creating 28.6 million jobs, and saving 91% on energy, health, and climate costs. The plan requires an initial investment of $73 trillion but pays for itself over time through energy sales.
Researchers have developed a bio-inspired membrane that combines the strength of bones with the ion transport properties of cartilage, enabling it to harness osmotic energy from saltwater. The membrane has shown high stability and performance, making it a promising solution for harvesting ocean energy.
Scientists developed a two-scale coupled momentum balance method to simulate wind farm aerodynamics, accounting for the impact of turbine towers. This updated model helps understand the potential impact of wind turbine support structures on the wind farm blockage effect.
A team of researchers from Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf has gained new insights into water electrolysis, aiming to enhance the environmental impact of hydrogen-based technologies. The findings offer a possible starting point for improving the efficiency of this process.