Validating the physics behind the new MIT-designed fusion experiment
Seven studies describe progress thus far and challenges ahead for a revolutionary zero-emissions power source.
Assessing the value of battery energy storage in future power grids
Storage value increases as variable renewable energy supplies an increasing share of electricity, but storage cost declines are needed to realize full potential.
3 Questions: Asegun Henry on five “grand thermal challenges” to stem the tide of global warming
“Our mission here is to save humanity from extinction due to climate change,” says MIT professor.
Researchers develop new materials for energy and sensing
MIT and Northwestern researchers create hybrid perovskite materials that could help improve the quality of solar cells and light sources.
Researchers find benefits of solar photovoltaics outweigh costs
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.
Transparent graphene electrodes might lead to new generation of solar cells
New roll-to-roll production method could enable lightweight, flexible solar devices and a new generation of display screens.
Solar energy farms could offer second life for electric vehicle batteries
Modeling study shows battery reuse systems could be profitable for both electric vehicle companies and grid-scale solar operations.
Maria Zuber on climate change: “Breakthroughs will happen”
MIT’s vice president for research identifies three areas that show particular promise for climate action.
Evaluating the global energy system
Meet the team of postdocs developing the MIT Energy Initiative's energy life-cycle assessment tool.
Fusion researchers endorse push for pilot power plant in US
Fusion energy community makes unified statement on priorities in report for Department of Energy Policy Advisory Group.
Deep cuts in greenhouse emissions are tough but doable, experts say
Speakers at MIT climate symposium outline the steps needed to achieve global carbon neutrality by midcentury.
A material’s insulating properties can be tuned at will
Most materials have a fixed ability to conduct heat, but applying voltage to this thin film changes its thermal properties drastically.
Simple, solar-powered water desalination
System achieves new level of efficiency in harnessing sunlight to make fresh potable water from seawater.
Researchers develop a roadmap for growth of new solar cells
Starting with higher-value niche markets and then expanding could help perovskite-based solar panels become competitive with silicon.
For cheaper solar cells, thinner really is better
Solar panel costs have dropped lately, but slimming down silicon wafers could lead to even lower costs and faster industry expansion.