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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.

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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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Volvo Buses in project researching use of second-life electric bus batteries to store solar energy

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Volvo Buses is participating in a research project in which used electric bus batteries are used as solar energy storage units. Batteries from electric bus route 55 in Gothenburg, Sweden are being used for solar energy storage in a second-life application. Tenants are just starting to move into their new apartments.

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Santa Clara VTA partners with Proterra and Scale Microgrid Solutions to charge 34 electric buses with solar-powered microgrid

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In the event of an extended power outage, such as a public safety power shutoff, electricity stored in the microgrid’s battery storage system can provide back-up power at VTA’s Cerone bus yard to allow the agency to continue operating battery-electric buses, serving riders and providing emergency transport if needed.

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Dept of Interior approves plan for largest solar project in US; 690 MW Gemini Solar with 380 MW battery system

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The Department of the Interior (Department) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) have approved a proposal to construct and operate the largest solar project in United States history. The ROD approves a right-of-way grant for the project and the associated amendment to the Las Vegas Resource Management Plan of 1998.

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NSF awards UCSD team $39M to improve integration of distributed energy resources into grid; EV batteries also

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Solar panel output depends on the weather, for example, as do wind turbines. At the other end of the grid, electric vehicles need charging for only a certain amount of time every day, and when not in use could be used as temporary batteries to store energy from renewables.

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Convert Oil Wells to Solve the Solar Storage Problem

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One of the main impediments to harnessing solar energy is storage. Solar batteries work as a short-term solution, but not when it comes to long-term storage or to power, say, an entire city. Solar energy and oil wells might sound like an odd combination, but the principle is similar to how geothermal energy would be harnessed.

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