Silicon-based solar panels currently on the market are unable to convert all radiations on the electromagnetic spectrum, such as infrared, which has a relatively long wavelength, so the panels’ energy conversion efficiency tops out at 30%. In response to this, researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a new type of solar cell design by applying a thin film over existing solar cells, which can increase their energy conversion rate by an estimated 25%. Their findings are published in the scientific journal Nanoscale. ...  more

To intensify the promotion of green energy in Japan, the Fukushima government will subsidize the building of 11 PV power stations and 10 wind farms in the region, which will cost a total of NT 83.4 billion. ...  more

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are now a necessity in everyday life. They not only power typical consumer electronic devices but have also found applications in transportation (e.g., electric vehicles) and utility infrastructure (i.e., energy storage systems). ...  more

Is it acceptable to deploy solar PV at sites of cultural significance? The general public over time has become more accepting of solar panels on roofs of different types of buildings as PV technologies improve in efficiency. ...  more

Throwing away used plastics is convenient for human beings, but for the environment, it is a disaster. Yet, as long as the plastics are properly recycled, the value is definitely not limited to one-time. Scientists have recently developed a new catalytic method that can convert plastics into lubricants, oils, detergents and even cosmetics in order to reduce environmental pollution and improve recycling. ...  more

The offshore wind farm off the coast of Miaoli County in northwestern Taiwan has been completed and is poised for grid connection, marking a milestone for the nation's wind-power development. ...  more

To power a remote island, submarine cables play an important role. What will happen after a submarine cable has a fraction and needs repair or maintenance? After the 32-kilometer-long cable's malfunction caused Norwegian Myken island a 2-month blackout, the residents decided to look into the hydrogen power, in order to replace the highly-polluting and high-priced diesel power generator. ...  more

South Korea will be pushing for the realization of a “hydrogen-powered society” through a series of initiatives involving public-private partnerships. First and foremost, the Korean government will accelerate the efforts to manufacture more models of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) and build out the related infrastructure such as hydrogen production plants and fueling stations. In the long run, the government intends to have hydrogen complement or even replace oil and natural gas as a major energy source that can support the foundation of domestic industries. ...  more