Seizing solar’s bright future
With laser-based precision tools for measuring and tuning materials, MIT spinout Optigon aims to rev up the energy transition.
With laser-based precision tools for measuring and tuning materials, MIT spinout Optigon aims to rev up the energy transition.
The device emits a stream of single photons and could provide a basis for optical quantum computers.
Materials scientist Anna Osherov helps researchers comprehend the nanoscale down to an atom using MIT.nano’s characterization tools.
The design could someday enable a fully decarbonized power grid, researchers say.
“This is the key, the linchpin that will set a lot of things in the right direction,” says the mechanical engineering professor.
Reducing internal losses could pave the way to low-cost perovskite-based photovoltaics that match silicon cells’ output.
Storage value increases as variable renewable energy supplies an increasing share of electricity, but storage cost declines are needed to realize full potential.
As the air cleared after lockdowns, solar installations in Delhi produced 8 percent more power, study shows.
Over a seven-year period, decline in PV costs outpaced decline in value; by 2017, market, health, and climate benefits outweighed the cost of PV systems.
MIT’s vice president for research identifies three areas that show particular promise for climate action.
Mechanical engineers rush to develop energy conversion and storage technologies from renewable sources such as wind, wave, solar, and thermal.
RFID-based devices work in indoor and outdoor lighting conditions, and communicate at greater distances.
Research shows that, contrary to accepted rule of thumb, a 10- or 15-year lifetime can be good enough.
Faculty in the Department of Mechanical Engineering are developing technologies that store, capture, convert, and minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
Design for system that provides solar- or wind-generated power on demand should be cheaper than other leading options.