Month: April 2025

Scientists at Tohoku University have pioneered an affordable hydrogen fuel production method using a novel surface reconstruction strategy for catalysts. This breakthrough in non-noble metal cathodes brings cost-effective clean fuel closer to reality, targeting commercial applications

A team of scientists at the Advanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University, announced a significant breakthrough in the quest for affordable and efficient hydrogen fuel production. Their innovative approach focuses on a surface reconstruction strategy to create highly durable and cost-effective catalysts, potentially bridging the gap between laboratory research and large-scale commercial application of clean hydrogen fuel.

The findings, published in the journal Advanced Energy Materials on April 3, 2025, offer a promising pathway to meet the US Department of Energy’s ambitious 2026 hydrogen production cost target.

Overcoming HER inefficiencies with non-noble metals

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) holds immense promise for generating clean hydrogen fuel, a crucial component in tackling the climate crisis. However, the inherent inefficiency and slow kinetics of HER have hindered its widespread commercialisation. Traditionally, expensive noble metals are employed as catalysts to accelerate this reaction.

Recognising the need for more affordable alternatives, the Tohoku University research team focused on transition metal phosphides (TMPs), a class of durable and cost-effective non-noble metal compounds known for their catalytic potential.

Fluorine modification unlocks enhanced catalytic activity

The research team’s novel strategy involved modifying cobalt phosphide (CoP) with fluorine. Through meticulous experimentation and advanced analytical techniques, including operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and Raman measurements, they elucidated the mechanism behind the enhanced catalytic performance.
The incorporation of fluorine into the CoP lattice facilitated the formation of phosphorus vacancy sites on the catalyst’s surface. These vacancies act as highly active sites, significantly accelerating the HER process.

Promising performance and cost projections for hydrogen fuel production

The modified catalyst, F-modified CoP, demonstrated exceptional durability, maintaining stable performance for over 300 hours under acidic conditions, a crucial requirement for proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysers.

Lead researcher Heng Liu (AIMR) highlighted the economic viability of their approach, stating, “This reconstructed Co is highly active, works in acidic conditions, and can maintain approximately 76 W for over 300 hours. We’re getting close to an affordable method to produce fuel. The calculated cost of using this method is $2.17 per kgH2-1 – just 17 cents over the current production target set for 2026.”

Bridging the gap to commercial application

Beyond laboratory-scale experiments using a three-electrode setup, the researchers extended their findings to commercial-scale PEM electrolysers, demonstrating the practical potential of their innovation. This advancement represents a significant step forward in HER catalyst research, providing a blueprint for the rational design of other high-performance non-noble metal-based cathodes.

Paving the way for a sustainable energy future

“We’re always thinking about the end goal, which is for research to make its way into everyday life,” emphasised Liu. “This advancement brings us one step closer to designing more realistic options for commercial PEM application.”

This research offers a compelling pathway towards affordable and sustainable hydrogen fuel production, potentially playing a pivotal role in the transition to a cleaner energy future.

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Researchers at Politecnico di Torino have developed new energy storage technology that could help tackle two major global challenges: reducing industrial carbon emissions with supercapacitors and boosting renewable energy efficiency

The new approach changes traditional supercapacitors into multifunctional devices capable of capturing and purifying carbon dioxide (CO2) while still producing and storing energy.

This solution is because of the CO2CAP project, which started in 2021 and was funded by a Starting Grant from the European Research Council (ERC). Professor Andrea Lamberti leads the Department of Applied Science and Technology research. The team’s latest development shows a significant step toward more sustainable and integrated energy systems.

Improving supercapacitors with new capabilities

Supercapacitors are energy storage devices known for their rapid charging and discharging capabilities. They already complement batteries in renewable energy applications, particularly where energy supply fluctuations make batteries less efficient. However, the CO2CAP team has added a strong new function to these devices.

By redesigning key components, particularly the electrodes and the electrolyte, the researchers have enabled supercapacitors to selectively capture CO2 from exhaust gases, such as those produced by industrial processes. The captured CO2 is purified, and at the same time, the energy involved in the process is converted and stored for future use. This is achieved using a novel ionic liquid electrolyte, a solvent-free salt that remains in a liquid state at room temperature.

Sustainable design

One of the most promising parts of this technology is its adaptability. It can be integrated into existing supercapacitor systems without requiring entirely new production lines.

This makes it a cost-effective option for manufacturers already involved in battery and supercapacitor production.

The European Union’s European Battery Alliance plans to establish 30 gigafactories for battery and supercapacitor production by 2030. The CO2CAP technology is expected to reach the implementation phase around the same time, after completing its Proof of Concept and raising its Technology Readiness Level (TRL). This alignment positions the innovation well for rapid market adoption.

Industrial applications and environmental impact

The technology is particularly good for industries with high carbon emissions, such as concrete, glass, and heavy manufacturing.

This solution supports circular economy principles by capturing CO2 directly at the source and converting it into energy and reusable materials. Captured carbon can be transformed into high-value products, including reagents, polymers, and organic compounds, reducing environmental impact and creating economic value.

A step forward in the energy transition

This new technology could be essential in the energy transition, offering a more efficient, sustainable approach to energy storage and carbon management. As renewable energy adoption increases and industries seek cleaner technologies, solutions like CO2CAP provide a blueprint for smarter, greener systems that work across sectors.

By combining carbon capture and energy storage into a single, scalable device, the Politecnico di Torino team setting the way toward a future where energy production and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

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The UK government is investing in its clean Energy by launching a £300 million investment through the publicly-owned Great British Energy to supercharge the country’s offshore wind industry

This plan hopes to improve domestic supply chains and secure thousands of skilled jobs, particularly in Britain’s industrial heartlands.

£300 million to support offshore wind

The investment is being fast-tracked ahead of the Comprehensive Spending Review and will target key manufacturing components such as floating offshore platforms and cabling. The move is central to the government’s broader ambition to strengthen the UK’s energy independence while driving economic growth.

This funding is expected to act as a catalyst, unlocking billions more in private investment and helping to de-risk vital clean energy projects. The funding is designed to attract international manufacturers and developers to invest in the UK, positioning the country as a global hub for offshore wind technology and production.

It follows a series of government measures designed to stimulate the clean energy sector, including planning reforms and grid connection improvements. It supports the long-term target of achieving clean power by 2030. Since July alone, £43 billion of private investment has been pledged toward clean energy projects, highlighting the growing confidence in the UK’s renewable energy landscape.

Targeting important components of offshore infrastructure

Communities across the country stand to benefit from this investment, particularly regions with a strong industrial heritage. By building domestic capacity in critical components of offshore wind infrastructure, the government aims to spread economic benefits, create good-quality jobs and revitalise local economies.

This announcement comes as global leaders gather in London for a two-day Future of Energy Security summit. Hosted by the UK government in partnership with the International Energy Agency, the event brings together ministers, business leaders, and energy experts worldwide to discuss strategies for accelerating the clean energy transition and protecting against future energy shocks.

Great British Energy, launched as part of the government’s Plan for Change, is important to the UK’s new industrial strategy. The company is tasked with ensuring Britain builds resilient energy infrastructure, enhances energy security, and keeps the economic benefits of clean Energy at home.

Driving economic growth and energy independence

In its initial phase, the £300 million fund will open to companies demonstrating a long-term commitment to UK supply chains. These grants are designed to support the rapid development of manufacturing facilities and ensure that British expertise, from welders to engineers, plays a pivotal role in delivering the country’s energy transition.

The investment is part of the wider £8.3 billion allocation for Great British Energy across this parliamentary term. Future funding rounds are expected, with more details on eligibility and criteria to be released later this year.

Industry groups have welcomed the announcement, seeing it as a crucial move to enhance the UK’s competitiveness in a fast-growing global market. With increased international competition for clean energy investment, this government backing is set to make the UK a more attractive destination for developers and manufacturers looking to expand their operations.

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In 2024, the European Commission reported that wind power became the European Union’s second-largest source of electricity, overtaking natural gas and coming in just behind nuclear

With other renewables, wind accounted for 47% of the EU’s electricity generation, marking a major milestone in transitioning to a cleaner, greener future.

Wind power is becoming Europe’s second-largest electricity source

In just one year, greenhouse gas emissions from electricity production dropped by a remarkable 24%.

As more households and businesses across Europe turn to wind and other renewable sources, the continent moves closer to energy independence while slashing pollution from fossil fuels.

Wind energy isn’t just clean; it’s also cost-effective. The price of building wind power infrastructure has plummeted over the past decade.

Onshore wind is now less than half the cost of coal power, and far cheaper than imported fossil fuels, which have driven up energy prices during recent global crises. Despite these challenges, wind power is helping to stabilise household energy bills and boost the competitiveness of European industry.

Wind energy is also making progress in its minimal environmental footprint. The average onshore wind turbine powers more than 1,500 EU households per year. Newer models can triple that output.

Unlike coal plants, which emit thousands of tonnes of CO2 annually, a wind turbine offsets its entire lifecycle emissions within its first year of operation. It has continued to generate clean energy for up to 25 years.

Minimal impact on nature and wildlife

Turbines are responsible for less than 0.1% of bird deaths caused by humans, significantly fewer than buildings or fossil fuel plants.

Offshore wind farms, which take advantage of stronger sea winds, are designed to minimise disruption to marine life and are quieter than many human activities at sea, such as oil drilling or shipping.

Wind energy also leaves plenty of space for people, nature, and agriculture. Each turbine only requires about 0.46 hectares, less than a football field, and most land around and beneath it remains usable. Whether on land or offshore, wind turbines are strategically placed at safe distances from homes and communities, and the noise they produce is often quieter than a household fridge.

Europe leads the way in technology and jobs

The European Union is a global leader in wind energy innovation and manufacturing, home to nearly half of the world’s key wind turbine companies. The sector supports 400,000 European jobs and new initiatives like the Clean Industrial Deal and the Net-Zero Industry.

Act are set to drive further growth and development. Wind energy has come a long way, from the first wind farm built on the Greek island of Kythnos in 1982 to today’s massive offshore installations. By embracing renewables like wind, Europe is reducing its reliance on imported fossil fuels, cutting emissions, and building a sustainable, self-reliant energy future.

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The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has released a new commercial framework to provide central government and other public sector bodies with direct access to renewable energy via long-term, fixed-price contracts

The Provision of Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which went live on 15 April 2025, is essential to the UK on its journey towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Secured under PCR 2015, this four-year agreement allows public sector organisations to purchase clean electricity directly from UK-based renewable energy generators, including wind and solar farms. It is the first time this kind of large-scale, fixed-price access to domestic green energy has been available to the public sector, offering a game-changing blend of sustainability, affordability, and energy security.

John Welch, Commercial Director, Estates at Crown Commercial Service, highlighted the strategic importance of the agreement:

“This new agreement represents an important step forward in our commitment to supporting public sector organisations in meeting their sustainability goals while securing predictable energy costs,” the Crown Commercial Service reported.

What are power purchase agreements?

Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are long-term contracts between an energy buyer and a generator,  where the buyer agrees to purchase a certain amount of power at a fixed price. These deals are significant in today’s energy market, offering budget certainty while guaranteeing a supply of clean, green electricity. The energy can come from renewable sources, including onshore and offshore wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) farms.

A response to market needs

CCS developed the agreement in response to growing demand across the public sector for accessible, reliable, and low-carbon energy. Market research highlighted the need for a simplified and transparent route to sustainable electricity procurement. This new agreement directly addresses that, offering competitive rates and fixed-term pricing options that help organisations plan more confidently.

Welch added:

“By enabling access to a UK-based renewable energy supply through long-term contracts, we’re helping the public sector reduce its environmental impact and contribute to the government’s net-zero ambitions.”

Key benefits for public sector buyers

The CCS Power Purchase Agreement framework delivers multiple advantages:

• Direct access to UK-based renewable energy assets
• Protection from energy market volatility
• Streamlined procurement process, with pre-approved contract terms
• Support for net-zero strategies
• Improved national energy independence

Focusing on domestic renewable assets, the agreement reduces reliance on imported energy and boosts national resilience.

A win for sustainability and stability

This innovative approach does more than help organisations “go green.” It provides a secure and stable electricity supply at a predictable price, empowering public sector entities to budget more effectively while supporting the UK’s climate goals. The framework encourages innovation and investment in the renewable sector, helping drive long-term transformation.

By merging long-term value, environmental responsibility, and financial predictability. The CCS Provision of Power Purchase Agreement shows a new public sector energy procurement standard.

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The UK is changing its electricity grid connection process to prioritise clean energy projects and create billions in private investment

These new changes are expected to be confirmed by energy regulator Ofgem and aim to accelerate access to the grid for projects that will deliver homegrown renewable power and drive economic growth.

Long waits for grid connectivity

Currently, businesses can face up to 15 years of waiting for a grid connection. Over the past five years, the queue has grown even more, creating a major halt for clean energy projects and development.

The changes will remove inactive or so-called “zombie” projects from the queue, making way for firms ready to build and aligned with the UK’s strategic energy goals.

These changes that support growth are expected to unlock around £40 billion in private investment annually. Since July 2024, £43.7 billion in private clean energy investments have been announced, a clear sign that investor confidence in the sector is growing.

Limited access to grid connectivity

One of the biggest challenges facing high-growth sectors like data centres, AI, wind, and solar power has been limited access to electricity grid connections.

New commitments to the UK’s data infrastructure alone have reached £35 billion since mid-2024. However, many projects have come to a halt due to connection delays. The reform system will prioritise these future-focused industries, fast-tracking connections and ensuring they can contribute to the UK’s clean energy transition.

The Government’s goals to improve energy security within the UK

This new approach is designed to drive investment and enhance the UK’s energy security.

By increasing access to renewable, homegrown energy, the changes will reduce reliance on volatile global fossil fuel markets. The goal is to build an energy system that lowers household bills long-term while also delivering sustainable, affordable power for homes, hospitals, electric vehicles, and emerging technologies.

The Government is also pushing forward the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to provide legislative support for Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) to deliver the reforms.

By taking a more strategic, planned approach to grid development, the UK expects to avoid tens of billions of pounds in unnecessary grid reinforcement costs, saving billpayers an estimated £5 billion.

The Clean Power Action Plan projects that achieving clean power by 2030 will require an average of £40 billion in investment annually from 2025 to 2030. This includes £30 billion for energy generation assets and £10 billion for transmission network upgrades.

Many important projects and investments have already been announced supporting this vision.

National Grid’s Eastern Green Link 2 is British history’s largest investment in electricity transmission infrastructure. Banks and financial institutions have pledged billions toward retrofitting social housing, flexible power generation, and battery storage systems. Renewable developers, such as OnPath and Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, also commit to large-scale solar and storage projects nationwide.

These changes the UK government is implementing show a shift in the UK’s energy strategy, making the UK a global hub for clean energy investment and innovation. By unlocking faster fair grid access, the Government hopes to drive forward its clean energy goals, strengthen national security, and lay the foundations for a more resilient and affordable energy system.

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For the first time in U.S. history, a commercial nuclear reactor tests fuel enriched above the traditional 5 per cent threshold, marking a milestone in nuclear fuel and energy development

Southern Nuclear has begun irradiation testing of new higher-enriched nuclear fuel at its Vogtle Unit 2 reactor in Waynesboro, Georgia. This could reshape the future of nuclear power production in the United States.

What makes this fuel different?

The new fuel, developed under the U.S. Department of Energy’s Accident Tolerant Fuel Program, is enriched up to 6 per cent in uranium-235, the primary isotope used to generate energy in nuclear reactors.

This level of enrichment allows the fuel to remain in reactors for more extended periods and operate at higher power levels. This could help increase the efficiency and output of nuclear plants while reducing the amount of nuclear waste generated.

Most commercial nuclear reactors in the U.S. currently run on fuel enriched between 3 and 5 per cent. Higher-enriched fuel opens the door to longer operating cycles, extending from the standard 18 to 24 months.

This not only boosts the energy output per cycle but also minimises the number of times a reactor must be refuelled, potentially reducing maintenance-related downtime and improving overall operational efficiency.

Longer cycles, less waste

Four lead test assemblies containing the advanced fuel have been loaded into the Vogtle Unit 2 reactor for commercial testing.

These assemblies use Westinghouse Electric Company’s ADOPT® fuel pellets derived from uranium oxide powder enriched and prepared by Idaho National Laboratory. The powder was converted into fuel pellets and assembled into fuel rods before being shipped to the Vogtle site.

In addition to higher uranium-235 enrichment, the fuel pellets include special additives that enhance safety performance. These additives are designed to improve the fuel’s resistance to extreme conditions, aligning with the goals of the DOE’s Accident Tolerant Fuel Program to increase the safety margins of nuclear fuel during unexpected events.

Testing timeline

The testing phase for the lead assemblies will be over four and a half years, covering several fuel cycles. After each cycle, the fuel will be removed and examined to gather performance data. A detailed assessment will follow the completion of the full testing period, and the results will help determine the feasibility of broader commercial use of the fuel in the U.S. nuclear fleet.

If the testing proves successful, the adoption of higher enriched fuel could play a critical role in supporting the future of nuclear energy in the U.S. By allowing longer cycles, reducing waste, and enhancing power generation capabilities, this new fuel technology could provide a valuable tool in meeting growing energy demands with a reliable and carbon-free power source.

The testing at Vogtle Unit 2 represents a significant advancement for Southern Nuclear and the entire nuclear energy industry. As the demand for clean, reliable electricity continues to grow, innovations like these are essential to improving the performance, safety, and sustainability of the nation’s nuclear power plants.

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The UK government has revealed a significant new plan to train thousands of young people and workers for careers in the clean energy sector, aiming to meet ambitious targets to deliver clean power across the country by 2030

As part of the Plan for Change initiative, the government will partner with industry leaders, unions, and local authorities to create a “clean power army” of engineers, welders, technicians, and other skilled workers.

This effort is key to a strategy to drive economic growth, boost energy security, and transition away from fossil fuels.

Central to the strategy is Regional Skills Pilots being launched in Aberdeen, Cheshire, Lincolnshire, and Pembrokeshire, areas identified as growth hubs for the clean energy sector.

Regional skills pilots to target key areas

These regions will receive funding to assess local needs and develop targeted training programmes. This could include new training centres, updated courses, and career advisory services focused on electrical engineering, welding, and infrastructure construction.

The transition to clean energy is expected to generate tens of thousands of jobs. National Grid has projected to support around 55,000 roles by the end of the decade, while SSE Transmission’s plans could lead to 37,000 jobs, including 17,500 in Scotland.

SP Energy Networks, part of Scottish Power, plans to double its transmission workforce, creating 1,400 jobs and supporting 11,000 across the UK. All these plans are pending regulatory approval.

The government is also investing in infrastructure to support the clean energy shift. A recent £55 million investment into the Port of Cromarty Firth aims to develop the area into a major hub for floating offshore wind, creating hundreds of skilled jobs.

Boosting the economy with clean energy

Contracts were also signed in the North East in December as part of the UK’s carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) programme is expected to support thousands of new jobs following a £21.7 billion commitment.

The clean energy sector is already proving to be a high-growth area.

According to CBI Economics, jobs linked to net zero initiatives grew by 10% last year. Average salaries in the sector now stand at £43,000, significantly higher than the national average.

Training to support young people and workers

To ensure young people are ready for these opportunities, the government is launching new tools such as the Your Apprenticeship app, co-designed with apprentices to give easy access to support and resources. The Skills Passport initiative will also help oil and gas workers transition to renewable roles, particularly in offshore wind.

The government’s Get Britain Working white paper, launched last year, outlines major reforms to employment support systems. This includes modernising Jobcentres, launching a Youth Guarantee to ensure every young person can earn or learn, and creating a more personalised employment service.

A new Office for Clean Energy Jobs and the recently established Skills England will coordinate efforts to align skills development with the clean energy industry’s needs over the next decade.

With the clean energy sector already contributing £83 billion annually to the UK economy, the government believes further investment and a skilled workforce can unlock an additional £40 billion in yearly investment. Apprenticeships alone are estimated to generate £25 billion in lifetime economic value.

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