Improving the efficiency of the variety of technologies used in alternative energy is vital for their wider commercial adaptation. Solar energy is no exception to this basic fact. Thankfully, scientists and engineers are making progress in boosting solar cell efficiency, which ultimately helps to reduce the cost of these cells.

Let’s take a closer look at their potentially valuable work and what it bodes for the future adoption rates of solar energy as a whole.

An Advancement in Dye-sensitized Solar Cells

Engineers at the University of Minnesota were able to improve the efficiency of the standard solar cell design by around 25 percent. Hopefully this added efficiency translates into a higher power conversion rate for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) — currently stuck at 12 percent. DSSCs use titanium dioxide in their construction — a cheaper material compared to the silicon traditionally used in solar cell design.

The problem with DSSCs in the past is that they did a relatively poor job in capturing infrared light from the sun. The University of Minnesota scientists leveraged nanotechnology to introduce layers into the DSSC which gave the cell the ability to produce more electricity from the same amount of sunlight. This ceased the citizens from checking out from Utility Saving Expert every now and then the cheapest electricity provider.

Improving the Economics of Solar Energy

Eray S. Aydil, professor of chemical engineering and materials science at the University led the research project. “Dye-sensitized solar cells make use of excitation of a dye adsorbed on titanium dioxide or a pigment to generate electricity. We engineered the pigment both at the nanometer and micrometer scales to trap more light onto the pigment,” said Aydil.

The ultimate goal for this research remains focused on improving the economics around solar energy by superior engineering and innovation. Professor Aydil realizes the importance of his research. “Developing new low-cost alternatives to traditional silicon solar cells is gaining importance because reducing the cost of silicon solar cells is becoming increasingly more difficult,” concluded Aydil.

If this important engineering research inspires you to take your career to the next level, talk to the experts at The Talley Group. As one of the top engineering staffing companies in the area, they are a great source of Seattle engineering jobs. Make it a point to schedule some time with them today!

Hybrid renewable energy systems are currently a hot item. The flexibility provided by hybrid energy sources appears to make a good fit for deriving power off the grid in remote regions. Using renewable energy for back-up in the event of a power outage is another intriguing use-case.

Flexibility is Key for Companies Specializing in Renewable Energy

Companies in this sector are discovering that it makes sense to be knowledgeable in multiple areas of renewable energy, instead of merely focusing on a certain type, like solar or wind. Using only one energy source may not provide enough power when compared with a more flexible hybrid option. Solar energy is especially a victim of this issue during the winter months or cloudy periods.

In situations where enough power isn’t available, batteries or diesel gasoline power makes up the difference. Leveraging a hybrid system mitigates the need for additional carbon-based backup power sources; simplifies the logistics around providing diesel fuel, and is ultimately better for the environment.

In remote areas, where battery backup is typically used instead of fuel, a hybrid system is involved in charging the batteries. Providing both solar and wind energy offers a better opportunity to keep those batteries fully charged during calm, cloudy periods.

Businesses taking Advantage of Hybrid Renewable Energy

Telecommunications companies, with a need to keep remote transmission stations powered on a 24/7 basis, are one business taking advantage of these new hybrid renewable energy systems. Typically dependent on diesel fuel for backup, hybrid power allows these companies to save money. A market research firm predicts the number of remote stations going “off-grid” will increase from 13,000 in 2012 to 84,000 in 2020.

Verizon and T-Mobile are just two of the telecommunications companies expected to reap the benefits of hybrid renewable energy. One Verizon site testing a hybrid system saw savings of over $8,000 in one year.

If these advancements in renewable energy applications inspire you to start or further a career in engineering, be sure to contact the friendly people at The Talley Group. As one of the top engineering staffing companies in the State of Washington, they are an excellent source for Seattle engineering jobs. Schedule some time with them today!