Green energy research is a rapidly growing field, with many new technologies and trends emerging as scientists and engineers work to develop new ways to produce and use clean energy. Some of the current trends in green energy research include:
- Renewable energy storage: One of the biggest challenges facing renewable energy is the intermittent nature of solar and wind power. Research focuses on developing new and better ways to store excess renewable energy, such as through batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, or thermal storage.
- Smart grids and energy systems: As more renewable energy is added to the grid, it becomes more complex to manage. Smart grid technologies are being developed to help manage and optimize the grid and enable better integration of distributed energy resources such as rooftop solar.
- Hydrogen fuel cells: Hydrogen fuel cells have the potential to provide a low-carbon alternative to traditional fossil fuels for a range of applications, including transportation and energy generation. Research focuses on improving the efficiency and durability of fuel cells and reducing the cost of production.
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning: These technologies optimize renewable energy systems and improve energy efficiency by predicting energy demand and optimizing energy production and consumption.
- Green hydrogen production: Hydrogen has the potential to be a clean and versatile fuel source, but currently, most hydrogen is produced using fossil fuels. Research focuses on developing new methods for producing hydrogen using renewable energy, such as water electrolysis.
- Building efficiency: Research is focused on developing technologies and materials to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, such as by reducing heating and cooling loads or increasing the use of natural lighting.
- Bioenergy and biofuels: Research is focusing on developing new ways to produce bioenergy and biofuels from a range of sources, including agricultural and forestry waste, algae, and other organic materials.
Green energy research is rapidly evolving, with many new technologies and trends emerging. There is now overwhelming evidence that the world is amid a climate crisis. Over the past 20 years, the Northern Hemisphere has seen a rise of 0.8 degrees Celsius. This temperature rise is causing the ice caps on the North and the South Poles to melt rapidly. The impact of climate change is being felt across the globe.
There is a fair degree of unanimity amongst nations across the globe that for growth and survival, the world will have to wean away from carbon fuels. There is an increasing emphasis on renewables for meeting energy needs. Electric mobility is gaining ground in North America, Europe, and China. This will require investment into green energy research to help discover cheaper and techno-economical solutions to support the ongoing energy transition.
Global investment funds from the Nordic region have stopped investing in carbon energy-based projects. They now fund green projects only. Many major fund houses are progressively increasing investments in the green economy. ESG investment is now emerging as a norm. Climate risk assessment models have been developed to evaluate business risks due to global warming.
The world is now witnessing competition between carbon fuel-based and clean energy growth. It is this competition that is driving political competition amongst nations and policymakers. Each is trying to gain leverage over the other. Climate change, investment risk assessment, development, competition for green energy, electric mobility, and green economy are hot areas for researchers. The impact of the green economy and the world requires to be studied. Green energy research is an upcoming area that will benefit researchers’ career prospects and help the world.