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Researchers use quantum computing method to optimize molecular photoswitches for solar energy harvesting

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Molecular photoswitches that can both convert and store energy could be used to make solar energy harvesting more efficient. The procedure was based on a dataset of more than 400,000 molecules, which the researchers screened to find the optimum molecular structure for solar energy storage materials. 202309543

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EPFL solar hydrogen system co-generates heat and oxygen

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EPFL researchers have built a pilot-scale solar reactor that produces usable heat and oxygen, in addition to generating hydrogen with unprecedented efficiency for its size. This is the first system-level demonstration of solar hydrogen generation. Resources Holmes-Gentle, I., Tembhurne, S.,

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Synhelion starts construction of DAWN demo plant to produce solar fuels

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ETH Zurich spin-off Synhelion has started the construction of DAWN—its own industrial plant to produce synthetic fuels using solar heat. The production process—using only solar heat—was first demonstrated in 2019 in a mini-refinery on the roof of ETH Zurich. Earlier post.)

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NREL scientists advance solar thermochemical hydrogen (STCH) production

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Hydrogen has emerged as an important carrier to store energy generated by renewable resources, as a substitute for fossil fuels used for transportation, in the production of ammonia, and for other industrial applications. A conceptual solar thermochemical hydrogen production platform. Illustration by Patrick Davenport, NREL.

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All-in-one solar-powered tower makes carbon-neutral kerosene in the field at pilot-scale

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We are the first to demonstrate the entire thermochemical process chain from water and CO 2 to kerosene in a fully-integrated solar tower system. Previous attempts to produce aviation fuels through the use of solar energy have mostly been performed in the laboratory. B) Photograph of the solar tower fuel plant during operation.

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Monash study on solar-driven electrolysis for green hydrogen production cautions on life-cycle emissions and EROI

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Researchers at Monash University in Australia have conducted a lifecycle analysis and net energy analysis (LCA/NEA) of a hypothetical large-scale solar-electrolysis plant for the production of green hydrogen. There is no immediate concern for copper resources, but the average ore grade is declining as higher grade deposits become exhausted.

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Researchers propose testing standards for particulate photocatalysts in solar fuel production

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Utilization of renewable solar energy is crucial for addressing the global energy and environmental concerns and achieving sustainable development. In this regard, photocatalytic water splitting has attracted significant interest as a cost-effective means to convert sustainable solar energy into valuable chemicals. Credit: DICP.

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