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Using nature as a model to get more energy out of light. (Image: pixabay/MabelAmber)

Not a solar cell, but a light-harvesting system with 38 percent efficiency developed

Following the example of nature, photosynthesis, a system was developed that captures as much light as possible and converts it as efficiently as possible. It is also wafer-thin.

Mario Petzold, 27 Jun 2024 20:58

The Solaris Urbino with Toshiba storage was already Bus of the Year in 2017. (Image: Toshiba)

Niob-based battery for fast charging and extreme conditions presented by Toshiba

With a charging time of just 10 minutes, practical energy density and a new type of anode, the battery is primarily intended for use in large, heavy vehicles. It is also reliable in a wide range of conditions.

Mario Petzold, 26 Jun 2024 16:18

It is still a laboratory process, but lithium production from geothermal energy is to be expanded. (Image: LevertonHELM)

"Clean" lithium for battery production can be extracted directly from water

Geothermal energy not only supplies heat and electricity. Almost pure lithium carbonate could be extracted from the deep water to produce batteries.

Mario Petzold, 25 Jun 2024 17:25

Batteries for electric cars need graphite, which Bill Gates is making from methane in a new process (symbolic image: DALL-E / KI)

Bill Gates' company produces key material for EV batteries from a surprising source: methane

Bill Gates' company Molten Industries produces graphite, a key material for lithium-ion batteries, from natural gas in a cost-effective and CO2-free process. The new technology is designed to help decarbonise while supporting the ...

Nicole Dominikowski, 25 Jun 2024 16:42

EcoFlow DELTA 3 Pro released with limited-time discounts and free gifts

The DELTA 3 Pro is a new smart portable generator rated to store up to 4,000 watts (W) of back-up power, which can be restored in as little as 50 minutes thanks to EcoFlow's new X-Stream fast-charging technology. It has just becom...

Deirdre O'Donnell, 25 Jun 2024 14:11

The cells are a long way from the theoretical maximum, but they last. (Image: youtube/Oxford PV)

Solar cell with 27 percent efficiency thanks to perovskite layer goes into production

No laboratory value, no theoretical maximum: In Brandenburg, Germany, the production of high-performance solar modules using the tandem process begins.

Mario Petzold, 21 Jun 2024 22:45

Small but extremely powerful: a stable perovskite solar cell. (Image: youtube/Rice University)

Perovskite solar cell passes endurance test - and is efficient

Durable or high-yield: until now, that was the choice with perovskite modules. A new method has now combined both - albeit on a not entirely practical scale.

Mario Petzold, 19 Jun 2024 17:28

Using surplus electricity from the summer in winter? (Image: pexels/Pixabay)

"Liquid battery" to support entire power grids

With more wind and solar power, gigantic storage options must also be created. A new principle for producing liquid fuels should help - completely without pure hydrogen.

Mario Petzold, 19 Jun 2024 17:18

The modules could generate 50 percent more electricity on the same surface area. (Image: Longi)

34.6 percent efficiency confirmed for perovskite tandem solar cell

The manufacturer Longi has presented an outstandingly powerful solar cell with perovskite and silicon. Its efficiency has already been confirmed, giving an idea of the technology's potential.

Mario Petzold, 16 Jun 2024 21:40

The Anker SOLIX PS100 and PS200 (above) solar panels are now available in Europe. (Image source: Anker)

Anker launches new SOLIX PS100 and PS200 foldable solar panels

Anker has brought two new SOLIX solar panels, the PS100 and the PS200, to Europe following their launch in North America earlier this year. The devices are said to have a 23% conversion efficiency and are compatible with a wide ra...

Polly Allcock, 15 Jun 2024 18:01

More chaotic, but more controllable than previously assumed: very, very hot plasma. (Image: Dave Pugmire, Jong Youl Choi/ORNL)

Nuclear fusion is becoming more efficient: Plasma could be more controllable than assumed

Unlike the small nuclear fusion reactors used for research, the plasma in ITER could require constant shutdowns. New calculations suggest that this decades-old assumption is wrong.

Mario Petzold, 14 Jun 2024 16:57

Solar modules can also look like this. (Image: Fraunhofer/Piotr Banczerowski)

Solar systems in different colors presented - butterfly as a model

Innovative photovoltaic modules can be produced in different colors. This ensures only minimal efficiency losses, but opens up many additional application possibilities.

Mario Petzold, 14 Jun 2024 16:47

The EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 will be launched soon. (Image: EcoFlow)

EcoFlow Delta Pro 3: Powerful and particularly quiet power station with 4,000 W coming soon

EcoFlow will soon be launching a new flagship solar generator. Initial information about EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 indicates it will come with 4,000 W of power.

Marcus Schwarten, 13 Jun 2024 14:39

New materials can improve the efficiency, service life or price of semiconductors. (Image: pixabay/PublicDomainPictures)

New method will search for better solar cells, transparent technology and more

An automated process, a hyperspectral camera and the prospect of further optimizations are driving semiconductor development. And it is not only further improvements in photovoltaics that are to be tackled.

Mario Petzold, 12 Jun 2024 21:21

Bill Gates at the TerraPower groundbreaking of the Natrium sodium-cooled reactor in Kemmerer, Wyoming. (Source: Bill Gates blog)

Bill Gates’ TerraPower starts construction on sodium-cooled Natrium nuclear power plant to help meet surging electricity demand from AI, EV, and cryptocurrency use

Bill Gates’ TerraPower has started construction on its sodium-cooled Natrium nuclear power plant in Wyoming. Partnering with the US Dept. of Energy, the project reactor will provide 345-megawatts of electricity to help meet surgin...

David Chien, 12 Jun 2024 05:17

At some point, the many solar cells will have to be recycled. Solutions are needed. (Image: pixabay/Andreas-Troll)

Recycle solar cells in 3 minutes - with salt water

A new recycling method for solar modules produces neither strong acids nor toxic waste. An important step towards a circular economy in photovoltaics.

Mario Petzold, 06 Jun 2024 20:10

Cheap electricity, reliable operation and simple construction: Wind farms in the sea have several advantages. (Image: pixabay/Tho-Ge)

Wind power from the sea: economic efficiency tops all other energy sources

Against the trend of rising prices, electricity from wind is costing less and less. Numerous other factors make offshore plants particularly attractive, also in combination with nuclear power.

Mario Petzold, 05 Jun 2024 20:54

Manure, chaff and husks can contribute to the energy transition and make farmers more independent. (Image: Jenny Fontaine/UIC)

Hydrogen from manure: maximum efficiency thanks to new technology

As a fuel - especially for large machines - hydrogen is likely to be of central importance in the future. However, its production is costly or dirty, something that biowaste could change abruptly.

Mario Petzold, 04 Jun 2024 21:11

A little sunlight should be enough to generate temperatures similar to those in a blast furnace. (Image: Cell Press/Device)

1,050 °C from sunlight: better blast furnaces for steel production

Instead of replacing coal with hydrogen, the direct route promises to be much more efficient. You would only need enough mirrors to capture sufficient sunlight, which has hardly been practical up to now. A new material is now set ...

Mario Petzold, 02 Jun 2024 15:11

The latest Eco Plus feature on Ecobee thermostats seeks to support the power grid. (Source: Ecobee)

Ecobee thermostats can now self-adjust to prevent power outages

Ecobee's new Community Energy Savings program will detect energy emergencies and automatically adjust your thermostat to reduce the risk of power outages. Users can also upgrade their participation to their utility's demand respon...

Sarfo Ashong-Listowell, 31 May 2024 20:51

Capturing CO2, generating electricity: a battery can do both at the same time. (Image: pixabay/catazul)

Sodium-CO2-battery stores electricity and binds carbon dioxide

The innovative energy storage system uses inexpensive materials, can absorb large amounts of electricity and binds CO2 when releasing energy. Further development of the system is already being planned.

Mario Petzold, 29 May 2024 19:24

A solar module can generate significantly more electricity on a bright ground. (Image: University of Ottawa)

Solar cells more effective with adapted background, especially in the north

Great technical solutions or innovations are not always necessary to increase the output of solar systems. Instead, more electricity can be generated with minimal effort, which works better in poor conditions.

Mario Petzold, 25 May 2024 13:47

Xiaomi has unveiled the Outdoor Camera Solar Panel (BW Series). (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi reveals new solar panel accessory on global website

Xiaomi has listed the new Outdoor Camera Solar Panel (BW Series) on its global website. The product is designed to prolong the runtime of smart home security cameras like the upcoming Outdoor Camera BW500. The solar panel’s connec...

Polly Allcock, 24 May 2024 12:30

Jackery refreshes Explorer 1000 power station with upgraded LFP batteries and faster charging

Jackery has announced its latest portable power station as a second generation of its existing Explorer 1000: the 1000 v2. It is is more compact compared to its predecessor, yet has increased maximum output thanks to updated batte...

Deirdre O'Donnell, 23 May 2024 18:01

Low-maintenance, durable and enough power for thousands of households: a Megapack. (Image: Tesla)

Tesla Megafactory for Megapack is finally being built

Construction of a factory for energy storage systems for power grids is starting in Shanghai. Production, which will amount to 40 gigawatt hours per year, is due to start in less than a year.

Mario Petzold, 23 May 2024 15:50

Anker is now accepting pre-orders for the SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 Plus and Pro (above). (Image source: Anker)

Anker SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 Plus and Pro launch with discount

Anker has launched the SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 Plus and the SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 Pro, now available for pre-order in Germany. Early customers can get 22% off the RRP and a free accessory. The solar energy storage solutions are ...

Polly Allcock, 22 May 2024 12:40

Nabu is planning to sue over the expansion of the Tesla Gigafactory, and is backed by climate activists and local residents (image: Tesla)

Tesla Gigafactory faces lawsuit from nature conservation organisation despite local approval

The dispute over the expansion of the controversial Tesla Gigafactory Berlin is coming to a head. After an attempt by around 800 climate activists to storm the building, nature conservation organisation Nabu is now taking legal ac...

Nicole Dominikowski, 21 May 2024 15:37

Cacti: now for smartphone protection. (Source: Otterbox)

Otterbox' latest iPhone cases are made with Cactus Leather because why not

Otterbox hints that the latest additions to its Symmetry series for Apple devices might be the most "ethical" accessories ever made. They are described as "leather", albeit a version of the material apparently sustainably sourced ...

Deirdre O'Donnell, 20 May 2024 19:24

Zinc and wood ensure the amazing loading behavior. (Image: LiU, Thor Balkhed)

8.000 charges and hardly any costs: battery made from zinc and waste presented

Inexpensive raw materials and a long service life are ingredients that every battery could do with. The new type of battery should be particularly interesting as an energy storage device and is partly made from paper production wa...

Mario Petzold, 15 May 2024 17:29

President Biden raises tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, lithium batteries, solar cells, medical PPE and syringes, and more. (Source: Whitehouse on YouTube)

President Biden raises US import tariffs on Chinese EVs, batteries, solar cells, medical supplies, semiconductors, port cranes, minerals, and metals while ignoring patients and medical providers

President Biden has raised US import tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, batteries, solar cells, medical supplies, semiconductors, port cranes, minerals, steel, and aluminum. The tariffs are in response to unfair Chinese trade p...

David Chien, 15 May 2024 03:16

The Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panel is a standalone product. (Image source: Jackery)

Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panel now available with launch offer

The Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panel is now on sale in countries worldwide. The folding device has four monocrystalline solar cells and can be used on its own, with ports to charge three devices simultaneously. Plus, custome...

Polly Allcock, 13 May 2024 18:20

There are still many free roof areas available. (Image: pixabay/This_is_Engineering)

Expansion of wind and solar energy faster than ever before

Since 2000, the share of these two energy sources has increased by well over 6,000 percent. This makes global climate protection targets more tangible and slows things down elsewhere.

Mario Petzold, 11 May 2024 14:33

Climate activists storm Tesla Gigafactory Berlin site (image: Instagram @teslastoppen)

Elon Musk stops production: Tesla Gigafactory stormed by hundreds of climate activists

Climate activists stormed the site of Tesla's Gigafactory in Berlin yesterday morning, forcing a halt to production. Tesla CEO Elon Musk commented on the protest on X, calling for tougher police action against the demonstrators.

Nicole Dominikowski, 11 May 2024 13:22

Organic compounds can also convert photons. (Image: pixabay/gerhardt12)

Organic solar cells with a big leap towards practical use

Manufactured exclusively from synthetic molecules and polymers, the production costs of organic solar panels in particular could be very low. Problems with efficiency and durability should soon be a thing of the past.

Mario Petzold, 07 May 2024 17:49

Bajaj's CNG motorcycle is expected to reduce fuel costs by 50-65%, according to the company's managing director (image: Bajaj Auto)

World's first affordable CNG motorcycle to slash running costs by 50-65%

Powered by CNG (compressed natural gas), Bajaj Auto's new motorcycle is designed to offer a more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to petrol and diesel motorcycles, countering the rising price of fuel.

Nicole Dominikowski, 04 May 2024 10:52

The battery cells are called BluePack and they are blue. (Image: Natron Energy)

Sodium battery for energy storage goes into mass production

Natron Energy presented its battery cell back in 2021. Now the market launch is set to begin on a large scale. The performance data of the new type of battery is very remarkable.

Mario Petzold, 03 May 2024 15:54

Resembles a llama, like ALPACA resembles the LLAMA (Lyman-alpha measurement apparatus). (Image: pixabay/wagrati_photo)

More precision for nuclear fusion: ALPACA increases efficiency

Nuclear fusion is to be made more controllable with an elaborate measuring instrument. However, the expense and the rather simple measurement parameter involved also show that there is still a long way to go to achieve economic vi...

Mario Petzold, 03 May 2024 15:05

vPCB turning into a jelly-like substance during recycling without damaging the core electronics (Image source: Mark Stone/University of Washington)

Researchers showcase new circuit boards with almost 100% recyclability

Electronic waste has become a growing problem, and researchers at the University of Washington may just have found a solution. The team has showcased new circuit boards that are almost 100% recyclable. These new PCBs (printed circ...

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 01 May 2024 11:31

The Anker SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 has been unveiled in Germany. (Image source: Anker)

Anker announces new SOLIX balcony power plant storage with launch offer

The Anker SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 series has been unveiled in Europe. Three models will go on sale, each with 1,600Wh storage and upgraded features like an integrated inverter. Plus, the company is offering email subscribers a dis...

Polly Allcock, 29 Apr 2024 21:35

The new 800W Alternator Charger. (Source: EcoFlow)

Deal | Get an EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger with a new DELTA-series portable generator for up to 35% off

EcoFlow is promoting its new 800W Alternator Charger via an up-to-35% sale off its bundles with the DELTA Pro or 2-series portable generators with which it is intended to be used. The Alternator is rated to increase the amount of ...

Deirdre O'Donnell, 29 Apr 2024 19:02

Affordable and climate-friendly dream homes could be possible thanks to a new AI architect and 3D printing (image: Icon)

Cheap, climate-friendly dream homes: New AI architect and 3D printing transform construction industry

The world's largest 3D-printed housing community has been completed - and the company behind it has now developed an AI architect who designs customized homes that are then built by a robot in record time. As well as reducing cost...

Nicole Dominikowski, 27 Apr 2024 15:42

EZVIZ' latest video doorbell launches with dual-lens tech and solar power back-up

EZVIZ' latest video doorbell is its first to come with its own solar power for potentially always-on operation. The EP3x Pro is also rated to 'expand' its field of vision with dual cameras, and to keep the user alerted as to the a...

Deirdre O'Donnell, 27 Apr 2024 15:19

The Anker SOLIX X1 Home Energy Storage System has arrived in North America. (Image source: Anker)

Anker SOLIX X1 ultra-thin home energy storage system now available

The Anker SOLIX X1 Home Energy Storage System is now on sale in the US, Canada, and Mexico. It is designed for indoor or outdoor use and can be combined with solar panels to reduce your reliance on the grid. Features include a Sto...

Polly Allcock, 23 Apr 2024 16:02

If the temperature changes, electricity is generated: just like a heat pump, only in reverse.

Heat pump on the wrist: chip converts heat into electricity for IoT and sensors

Tiny devices such as contact and temperature sensors or for weather measurement and automation are spreading rapidly. The power supply requires cables or batteries, which a new type of energy cell could change.

Mario Petzold, 22 Apr 2024 14:38

Apple intends to power its entire production chain with green energy by 2030 (Image: Apple)

Every iPhone to be charged with green energy by 2030: Apple gives update on sustainability initiative

By switching to renewable energy throughout the supply chain and investing in green energy, the company aims to reduce its carbon footprint to zero by 2030. However, the timing of this press release is unlikely to be a coincidence...

Tristan Hesser, 20 Apr 2024 01:24

Wind turbines sometimes supply too much electricity and then too little. (Image: pixabay/sonnydelrosario)

Electricity grid of the future: California bets on batteries

In just a few years, one of the largest power grids in the world has been radically rebuilt to meet the changing requirements of renewable energies. The dimensions appear to be quite manageable.

Mario Petzold, 19 Apr 2024 21:47

DJI has launched its first two power Stations today. (Image: DJI)

DJI Power 500 and Power 1000: First DJI power stations launched with a special charging port for drones

DJI today announced the launch of its first two power stations. The Power 500 and Power 1000 models can be used for mobile power supply and feature a special port for fast charging of drones, among other things.

Marcus Schwarten, 18 Apr 2024 18:32

Such solar cells could also extend the flight time of classic drones. (Image: pixabay/Harald_Landsrath)

Mini drone flies using only solar power: ultra-thin perovskite film makes it possible

It is the perfect demonstration of extremely lightweight solar modules with gigantic energy density: a multicopter is fitted with only solar cells, which then supply enough power for the small aircraft to take off as usual.

Mario Petzold, 18 Apr 2024 17:08

Light and radio waves can transmit energy over long distances, even from orbit. (Image: Airbus)

Solar power plants in space: SOLARIS is looking for the best concepts

Solar cells in orbit could permanently supply huge amounts of electricity around the clock, regardless of the weather and without using up land surface. Now it's all about the technical realization and financial feasibility of ele...

Mario Petzold, 17 Apr 2024 15:56

Renewable

Not a solar cell, but a light-harvesting system with 38 percent efficiency developed

Niob-based battery for fast charging and extreme conditions presented by Toshiba

"Clean" lithium for battery production can be extracted directly from water

Bill Gates' company produces key material for EV batteries from a surprising source: methane

EcoFlow DELTA 3 Pro released with limited-time discounts and free gifts

Solar cell with 27 percent efficiency thanks to perovskite layer goes into production

Perovskite solar cell passes endurance test - and is efficient

"Liquid battery" to support entire power grids

34.6 percent efficiency confirmed for perovskite tandem solar cell

Anker launches new SOLIX PS100 and PS200 foldable solar panels

Anker Solix Solarbank 2 Pro in a practical test: Powerful balcony power station with storage, 2,400 W and up to 9.6 kWh

Nuclear fusion is becoming more efficient: Plasma could be more controllable than assumed

Solar systems in different colors presented - butterfly as a model

EcoFlow Delta Pro 3: Powerful and particularly quiet power station with 4,000 W coming soon

New method will search for better solar cells, transparent technology and more

Bill Gates’ TerraPower starts construction on sodium-cooled Natrium nuclear power plant to help meet surging electricity demand from AI, EV, and cryptocurrency use

Recycle solar cells in 3 minutes - with salt water

Wind power from the sea: economic efficiency tops all other energy sources

Hydrogen from manure: maximum efficiency thanks to new technology

1,050 °C from sunlight: better blast furnaces for steel production

Ecobee thermostats can now self-adjust to prevent power outages

Sodium-CO2-battery stores electricity and binds carbon dioxide

Solar cells more effective with adapted background, especially in the north

Xiaomi reveals new solar panel accessory on global website

Jackery refreshes Explorer 1000 power station with upgraded LFP batteries and faster charging

Tesla Megafactory for Megapack is finally being built

Anker SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 Plus and Pro launch with discount

Tesla Gigafactory faces lawsuit from nature conservation organisation despite local approval

Otterbox' latest iPhone cases are made with Cactus Leather because why not

8.000 charges and hardly any costs: battery made from zinc and waste presented

President Biden raises US import tariffs on Chinese EVs, batteries, solar cells, medical supplies, semiconductors, port cranes, minerals, and metals while ignoring patients and medical providers

Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panel now available with launch offer

Expansion of wind and solar energy faster than ever before

Elon Musk stops production: Tesla Gigafactory stormed by hundreds of climate activists

Organic solar cells with a big leap towards practical use

World's first affordable CNG motorcycle to slash running costs by 50-65%

Sodium battery for energy storage goes into mass production

More precision for nuclear fusion: ALPACA increases efficiency

Researchers showcase new circuit boards with almost 100% recyclability

Anker announces new SOLIX balcony power plant storage with launch offer

Deal | Get an EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger with a new DELTA-series portable generator for up to 35% off

Cheap, climate-friendly dream homes: New AI architect and 3D printing transform construction industry

EZVIZ' latest video doorbell launches with dual-lens tech and solar power back-up

Anker SOLIX X1 ultra-thin home energy storage system now available

Heat pump on the wrist: chip converts heat into electricity for IoT and sensors

Every iPhone to be charged with green energy by 2030: Apple gives update on sustainability initiative

Electricity grid of the future: California bets on batteries

DJI Power 500 and Power 1000: First DJI power stations launched with a special charging port for drones

Mini drone flies using only solar power: ultra-thin perovskite film makes it possible

Solar power plants in space: SOLARIS is looking for the best concepts

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