National Renewable Energy Laboratory scientists devised a next-generation thermochromic window. Thermochromic items are temperature sensitive and change color when the temperature changes. The window generates electricity while reducing the need for air conditioning.
- The thermochromic photovoltaic window can change color to block glare and unwanted heat from entering buildings on hot, sunny days.
- Researchers’ breakthrough combines form and function: The color change can now occur at a variety of temperatures and in a lot of different hues, meaning architects and developers could choose which window colors to incorporate into their building design. An earlier thermochromic window version darkened to a reddish-brown color and had to reach 150-175 degrees Fahrenheit to trigger the transformation.
- The technology creates electricity with embedded perovskites, crystalline structures that are highly efficient at harvesting solar energy.
- Researchers say a prototype window could be developed within a year.
Today’s headlines:
🔌 UTILITIES:
- Minnesota’s Xcel Energy will use a $10.5 million U.S. Department of Energy grant to build a pilot hydrogen plant at one of its nuclear facilities, reports the Star Tribune. The utility could produce zero-emissions hydrogen if the test program reaches commercialization, rather than the typical hydrogen production model of using natural gas.
We’re piloting a new way to make hydrogen at a carbon-free nuclear plant! Through innovation and investing in new technology, we’re committed to reducing carbon emissions, keeping bills low for customers, and delivering reliable service. For more: https://t.co/GgQ4d2GgMk
— Xcel Energy (@xcelenergy) October 15, 2020
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- St. Louis-based power company Ameren and the Electric Power Research Institute hosted a demo day for 10 startups that aim to overcome grid challenges in areas such as power system resiliency, electric mobility, and energy efficiency.
🥤 PLASTICS: A team of scientists led by Ames Laboratory developed a first-of-its kind catalyst that can break down polyolefin plastics — such as commonly used container components polyethylene and polypropylene — into high-quality components that can be reused for products including fuel.
💰 FUNDING:
- Amazon’s Alexa Fund provided an undisclosed amount of seed funding for Chicago indoor hydroponics startup Rise Gardens (featured in Centered), reports Built In Chicago.
- Eight of the 12 recipients of a collective $27 million in DOE funding for projects to develop advanced plastics recycling technologies went to Midwest businesses or research institutions, including the University of Akron, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, and Skokie, Illinois-based LanzaTech.
🏃 ACCELERATOR: The Water Council in Milwaukee is accepting applications through November 29 for its BREW 2.0 accelerator for market-ready water technology innovators. The program is different from previous iterations in that it focuses on late-stage innovations and is virtual with a less intensive time commitment.
#Water tech #startups, it’s time to get ‘BREW’ing! Apps open TODAY for BREW 2.0, offering #training and connections to customers and #funding in our vibrant #WaterTech ecosystem to scale and grow.
🙌Apply and say hi at https://t.co/1ECuTHG01m #WhereWaterWorks #BREW2.0 pic.twitter.com/wWSyyQGjWQ
— The Water Council (@TheWaterCouncil) October 15, 2020
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