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A new solar cell process using Sn(II)-perovskite oxide shows promise for green hydrogen production. Researchers in nanoscale chemistry have made progress in efficient solar-powered water splitting. A study led by Flinders University uncovered a process vital for photocatalytic water splitting. The collaboration involves experts from South Australia, the US, and Germany. This breakthrough could advance sustainable energy technologies significantly.
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The carbon dioxide removal (CDR) industry marked significant progress in 2024. With advances in technology, increased investments, and stronger government support, the sector solidified its place as a critical part of the global climate strategy. Despite the progress, challenges like scalability and delivery gaps persist. Let's take a look at five key developments that shaped the CDR landscape this year.
Teesside University researchers are developing a new material to reduce atmospheric carbon. It could capture 3.5–5 million tonnes of CO2 annually in the UK by 2030. Globally, it may capture up to 30 million tonnes per year. The cost is estimated at £100 per tonne, far cheaper than existing DAC technologies. The project is a collaboration with the University of Edinburgh.
The U.S. Department of Energy is re-opening a $500 million funding opportunity to expand CO2 transport infrastructure. The goal is to support carbon management technology for capturing CO2 from industry, power generation, and the atmosphere. A safe transport system will enable permanent storage or conversion into durable products. These projects aim to cut CO2 emissions, create jobs, and strengthen energy security.
The U.S. government released a new action plan for a sustainable maritime sector. The plan builds on the National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization. It focuses on scaling vessels and solutions to cut costs and emissions. Large ocean-going vessels account for 66% of maritime energy use in the U.S. Combustion of heavy fuel oil adds to emissions and public health issues.
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology organization, is pleased to announce that it has signed an agreement with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany’s premier research institution, to pursue collaborative research related to fusion, materials characterization and hydrogen science and technology.
Bill Gates and other billionaires, including Jeff Bezos and Masayoshi Son, met in London to evaluate climate-focused investments. Their portfolios include companies working on carbon dioxide removal. Despite promising innovations, the technology remains expensive and unproven at scale. The U.S. government and private companies are heavily investing in the sector, which could grow into a trillion-dollar industry by 2050.
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Comstock Inc. has partnered with Emerging Fuels Technology to integrate gas-to-liquids processes into its renewable fuel solutions. The collaboration aims to convert carbon emissions into high-yield renewable fuels, boosting biomass conversion yields and reducing carbon intensities. Both companies are focused on accelerating the production of cost-effective, low-carbon renewable fuels.
Follow the money flow of climate, technology, and energy investments to uncover new opportunities and jobs.