Latest news with #JeffMarootian
Yahoo
14-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Energy Department announces $18 million investment in unlikely power source — here's how it could help consumers
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) made waves in December 2024 by announcing an $18 million investment in marine energy research. The funding is earmarked for 27 R&D projects across 17 universities to help unlock the massive potential of ocean-based renewable energy. Marine energy — power harnessed from waves, tides, and underwater currents — is one of the most underused clean energy sources in the U.S. But for context, according to the DOE, marine energy resources in the U.S. are equal to about 57% of all the power generated in 2019. Even if we can capture a fraction of that, it could be a game-changer for clean energy. Jeff Marootian, the principal deputy assistant secretary for the DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, said in the announcement: "The oceans hold incredible potential for renewable energy to power homes, businesses, and even offshore work such as marine research." How often do you worry about your energy bills? Every day A few times a week A few times a month Only when I pay it Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. In August 2024, the Marine Energy Technologies Acceleration Act was also introduced into Congress. If that bill goes through, we could see even more funding for research and the development of new technology for harnessing marine energy. Investing in marine energy could benefit consumers immensely. As these kinds of tech advance and become more common, they could drive down energy costs and provide more reliable renewable energy, especially for coastal communities. They also reduce our dependence on dirty energy from fossil fuels, which contribute to planet-warming gases and air pollution. Plus, water-based energy sources are predictable (unlike wind and solar, which depend on the weather), and they could help stabilize the energy grid. We've seen the power of renewable marine energy in similar projects, such as a new grid-scale wave energy device off the coast of Hawai'i. Research to advance the tech used for harnessing marine energy is ongoing, with new tools in development, such as the impressive Dragon 12 underwater kite. The DOE has listed more information about the projects receiving funding on its website. "These projects harness the creativity of researchers at universities across the country to spur innovation in marine and ocean renewable energy," Marootian said in the announcement. After the announcement, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell shouted out the University of Michigan, one of the institutions selected for funding. "These projects will improve marine energy technology and make data more accessible to the public, bringing us one step closer to making marine energy a reliable, cost-effective power," Dingell said. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
11-02-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
New report uncovers surprising potential for out-of-commission wind turbines: 'Innovation is key'
Wind turbines were already a win for clean energy, but now they're getting even better with a surprising second life that cuts down on waste. According to CleanTechnica, a new report reveals that the United States has the capability to recycle up to 90% of wind turbine materials. This discovery can change how the industry handles old turbine blades, which have long been a challenge because of their size and composition. With wind energy expanding rapidly across the country, finding a way to reuse old turbines is important for reducing waste and maximizing the long-term benefits of renewable energy. Do you think America could ever go zero-waste? Never Not anytime soon Maybe in some states Definitely Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. According to the report, published earlier this year, advancements in material recovery and recycling techniques make it possible to repurpose nearly all components of retired wind turbines. While metal parts such as steel towers and copper wiring have always been recyclable, new methods are enabling the breakdown and reuse of fiberglass blades — one of the most difficult parts to dispose of. These new techniques are being applied by researchers and leaders across the industry, ensuring that the growing number of aging wind turbines doesn't lead to a growing amount of landfill waste. By keeping turbine materials out of landfills, recycling efforts reduce overall waste and lower the demand for raw materials, cutting down on pollution from manufacturing. Additionally, these advancements could decrease the cost of wind energy infrastructure, making it even more affordable in the long run. On a larger scale, this solution contributes to a cleaner environment by preventing waste buildup and reducing pollution associated with turbine disposal. Industry experts and sustainability advocates are applauding this development as a major win for the renewable energy sector. "Innovation is key to closing the loop, and this research will help guide national investments and strategies aimed at advancing technologies that can solve the remaining challenges and provide more affordable, equitable, and accessible clean energy options to the American people," said Jeff Marootian of the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. With nearly full recyclability now within reach, the future of wind power looks more promising than ever. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
