A new online platform offers comprehensive data and tools about U.S. hydropower assets, enabling data-driven decisionmaking at the energy–water nexus.
renewables
Drought Leads to More Fossil Fuel Emissions
Hydropower lost in one area is often replaced by fossil fuel power produced elsewhere—and renewable energy sources may struggle to meet electricity demands caused by more frequent dry spells.
A Symbiosis Between Agriculture and Solar Power
A growing population requires more food and energy, which compete for limited space…unless they don’t.
Solar Panels Nurse Desert Soil Back to Life
Cultivating delicate soil crust in the shade of solar panels might boost the recovery of arid land.
Conserving Biodiversity Could Alter Crop Production
Researchers examined the land use trade-offs that could come with protecting at-risk species. But some scientists question what should be prioritized.
Wind Could Power Future Settlements on Mars
Using a sophisticated global climate model adapted to Mars, space scientists explore the hidden potential of wind energy on the Red Planet.
Potentially Good News for Solar Energy During Wildfires
A preliminary analysis suggests that the impact of smoke blocking the Sun during 2020’s megafires was minimal for the nation’s solar panels.
Could Floating Solar Panels Help Mitigate Climate Change?
“Floatovoltaics” are an emerging technology, but their environmental impacts are still unknown.
Can Decommissioned Mines Become Green Power Generators?
A new report supports the idea that underground mines can be transformed into energy storage facilities, adding the possibility of on-demand, carbon-free power to energy grids.