New green tech generates electricity from atmospheric humidity

Scientists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst have created a device that uses a natural protein to create electricity from moisture in the air. The Air-gen connects electrodes to the protein nanowires in such a way that electrical current is generated from the water vapor naturally present in the atmosphere. It can generate power even in areas with extremely low humidity such as the Sahara Desert. Next steps they plan include developing a small air-gen "patch" that can power electronic wearables such as health and fitness monitors and smart watches. They also hope to develop Air-gens to apply to cell phones to eliminate periodic the ultimate goal is to make large-scale systems that could help power your home. Once we get to an industrial scale for wire production, I fully expect that we can make large systems that will make a major contribution to sustainable energy production, the researchers say, "Once we have to develop stand-alone air-powered generators that will supply electricity off the grid.

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Uruguay, Latin America’s renewable champion
Policy & Regulation Energy Infrastructure

Uruguay, Latin America’s renewable champion

Uruguay now produces more than 97 percent of its electricity from renewable energy sources. The country has undergone a remarkable change in its energy sector in recent years. Wind farms across the country had lowered these costs by more than 200 million US dollars annually.

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China is investing $13 trillion in construction. Will it pursue zero carbon buildings?
Buildings & Transport

China is investing $13 trillion in construction. Will it pursue zero carbon buildings?

China has the largest buildings market in the world, making up 20% of all construction investment globally. China is expected to spend nearly $13 trillion on buildings by 2030. Building operations are responsible for 28% of global energy-related carbon emissions.

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Some like it hot – Is Hydrogen the answer to those needing it a little warmer?
Energy Infrastructure

Some like it hot – Is Hydrogen the answer to those needing it a little warmer?

Hydrogen is a fuel that burns up to 2800 degrees Celsius (about 700C simply burned in air) It can also be compressed and stored so has potential for transport. We need to be more clear and honest about how we talk about Hydrogen.

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Influencing the European Green Deal and industrial strategy: Leaders and laggards among small EU states
Policy & Regulation

Influencing the European Green Deal and industrial strategy: Leaders and laggards among small EU states

Finland offers free online course in Artificial Intelligence to 500m citizens. The aim is to persuade 1% of the population or 5m to take the course by the end of 2021. Sweden and the Netherlands are following in their wake.

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Plans are nothing, planning is everything
Renewable Energy

Plans are nothing, planning is everything

John F. Kennedy provided the leadership to get to the moon by setting the clear target. NASA drove the plan to overcome the many constraints that existed back in 1961. To achieve net zero definitely needs vision and leadership, but it also needs a realistic plan.

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New report says electrification of several European sectors could slash emissions by 60%
Policy & Regulation

New report says electrification of several European sectors could slash emissions by 60%

Electrification of the transport, buildings, and industrial sectors in Europe could slash greenhouse-gas emissions by 60% between 2020 and 2050. The report outlines a plausible pathway of electrification, taking account of current levels of policy ambition in countries like the UK .

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India's electricity upgrade
Policy & Regulation

India's electricity upgrade

As of December 2019, India had installed 86 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity. India has an ambitious target of 175GW of variable renewable energy by 2022, rising to 450GW by 2030. Renewable energy resources are abundant in India.

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Europe's sustainable future depends on accessibility of raw materials for batteries
Policy & Regulation Energy Infrastructure

Europe's sustainable future depends on accessibility of raw materials for batteries

EESC singles out accessibility of raw materials as a pressing issue. Widespread e-mobility is the next key step towards making sustainable transport possible. Only by having ongoing access to raw materials for batteries will Europe be able to move away from fossil.

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Why and how to modernize your switchgear
Energy Efficiency

Why and how to modernize your switchgear

There is a significant increase in the number of industries that are installing switchgear. An outdated system can mean disruption of services and major financial losses. Every organization must upgrade and modernize its switchgear. Let us understand how this can be achieved.

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