Latest news with #NationalResearch
Business Mayor
06-05-2025
- Science
- Business Mayor
Dust in the system — How Saharan storms threaten Europe's solar power future
As Europe increases its reliance on solar energy to meet climate and energy security targets, a growing atmospheric phenomenon is complicating the path forward: Saharan dust. New research presented at the European Geosciences Union General Assembly (EGU25) shows that mineral dust carried on the wind from North Africa is not only reducing photovoltaic (PV) electricity generation across Europe but also making it harder to predict. In their presentation at EGU25, The shadow of the wind: photovoltaic power generation under Europe's dusty skies, Dr. György Varga and collaborators from Hungarian and European institutions reveal how dust-laden skies disrupt PV performance and challenge existing forecasting models. Their work, grounded in field data from more than 46 Saharan dust events between 2019 and 2023, spans both Central Europe (Hungary) and Southern Europe (Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, and Greece). The Sahara releases billions of tonnes of fine dust into the atmosphere every year, and tens of millions of tonnes reach European skies. These particles scatter and absorb sunlight, reduce irradiance at the surface, and can even promote cloud formation — all of which degrade PV output. The researchers found that conventional forecasting tools, which use static aerosol climatologies, frequently miss the mark during these events. Instead, the team recommends integrating near-real-time dust load data and aerosol-cloud coupling into forecasting models. This would allow for more reliable scheduling of solar energy and better preparedness for the variability introduced by atmospheric dust. 'There's a growing need for dynamic forecasting methods that account for both meteorological and mineralogical factors,' says Varga. 'Without them, the risk of underperformance and grid instability will only grow as solar becomes a larger part of our energy mix.' Beyond atmospheric effects, the team also points out to the long-term impacts of dust on the physical infrastructure of solar panels, including contamination and erosion — factors that can further reduce efficiency and increase maintenance costs. This research contributes to ongoing efforts in Hungary and the EU to improve climate resilience and renewable energy management. It is supported by the National Research, Development and Innovation Office (FK138692), the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and the EU-funded National Multidisciplinary Laboratory for Climate Change. READ SOURCE
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
OceanQuest - An Ambitious Foundation Dedicated to Deep Ocean Exploration Launched In Saudi Arabia With a Mission to Accelerate Ocean Discovery, Drive Innovation in the Field, Support Global Cooperation, and Engage the Public
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- OceanQuest, a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to deep ocean exploration, has officially launched in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With a mission to accelerate ocean discovery, drive innovation, and foster international cooperation while engaging the public, OceanQuest is set to significantly accelerate deep ocean research and knowledge sharing. The foundation supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by spearheading innovation in ocean exploration and advancing sustainable development. OceanQuest is set to contribute to the Kingdom's National Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) targets by providing SAR 3 billion in research and development funding by 2050 and eventually supporting more than 150 scientists annually, while also aiding Saudi Arabia's efforts to protect 30% of marine habitats. OceanQuest will lead a series of joint expeditions to study seamounts—vital underwater ecosystems essential to ocean health. These missions will provide new insights into the biology, chemistry, physics, and geology of the deep ocean, enhancing global knowledge and informing conservation efforts. The foundation will also aim to operate a small fleet of state-of-the-art research vessels equipped with advanced deep-sea robotics, allowing for the exploration of previously unreachable depths. A key component of OceanQuest's innovation agenda will include the creation of digital twins of ocean seamounts—real-time virtual models that provide valuable insights for informed decision-making, conservation, and sustainable use. To lead this ambitious initiative, OceanQuest has appointed Dr. Martin Visbeck as Chief Executive Officer. A globally recognized expert in ocean science, Dr. Visbeck brings over three decades of experience in advancing ocean research, policy, and technological innovation. Under his leadership, OceanQuest will drive forward initiatives that accelerate deep-sea exploration, pioneer new technologies, and elevate global engagement with the ocean. About OceanQuest: OceanQuest is a Saudi Arabian not-for-profit foundation, committed to unveiling the wonders of the ocean and exploring its secrets for the benefit of humanity. Its mission is to accelerate ocean discovery, drive innovation in the field, support global cooperation, and excite the public. OceanQuest and its global partners will launch a new era of deep ocean exploration and knowledge sharing. OceanQuest is based in the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) campus in Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To learn more visit Video: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE OceanQuest
