If you’ve watched the sequels to the ‘80s science fiction classic “Back to the Future,” you’re familiar with Doc Brown’s DeLorean time machine and its innovative power source: a device from the future known as “Mr. Fusion.” But did you know this device was powered by household trash?
Replacing fossil fuels with sustainable, waste-to-energy technology is no new concept. Today, as we transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, clean sustainable sources are revolutionizing how we generate clean power. Let’s look at some exciting clean energy technologies powering the future.
#1 Autonomous Electric Vehicles and Wireless Charging Roadways
Imagine a completely autonomous car driving you down a highway, charging your vehicle as you go: no tailpipe exhaust and no gas stations. Battery-powered electric vehicles (BEVs) are already slowly replacing gas and diesel vehicles and rely on renewable energy sources like solar and wind to charge. Emerging technologies like solid-state batteries enhance energy storage, while wireless charging roadways are already being tested in the United States to provide continuous, wireless power for electric vehicles.
While future cars may not necessarily be fueled by trash, our planes could be. Engineers are developing new forms of jet fuels (using trash, waste and even sugar or corn) to replace harmful fuels for sustainable air travel.
#2 Energy Storage Systems
Renewables like solar and wind are notoriously dependent upon weather conditions, making a permanent, continuous power source crucial. Energy storage systems provide this reliable source, meaning that much of our power needs may be reliant on batteries in the future. New battery technology like lithium-ion and flow batteries have greatly improved storage capacity and efficiency. These systems can store excess energy generated during peak production times, which can be released when demand is high or when sustainable sources aren’t producing.
As this technology advances, it’ll become easier to integrate renewable energy into the grid, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.
#3 Bioenergy Fuels
Back to household trash: A growing amount of alternative energy comes from bioenergy fuel, which is derived from organic materials (like plant matter and agricultural waste). Algae-based biofuels have gained significant attention as alternative energy sources to traditional crops. Algae grow rapidly, can absorb large amounts of toxic carbon dioxide from the air and can be cultivated in areas that are unsuitable for conventional agriculture. These kinds of biofuels help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and offer a safer alternative to fossil fuels.
#4 Floating Solar Farms
While you’re most likely familiar with onshore solar farms — large open spaces housing hundreds of solar panels — you may not be familiar with offshore farms. Floating solar farms, or “floatovoltaics,” are installed on bodies of water like lakes or oceans. These farms are being developed for regions with limited land availability, such as the offshore solar farm floating near the coastline of Shanghai, China. Floatovoltaics don’t just create clean energy; they also reduce water evaporation and algae growth. Two more innovations to watch out for in this sector:
- Advanced photovoltaics: Solar panels with higher energy conversion rates.
- Wave and tidal energy: Capturing energy from ocean movements to produce electricity.
#5 Advanced Wind Turbines
Speaking of offshore innovation, wind energy is another of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources. The development of larger and more efficient wind turbines has greatly increased energy output in countries like the United States. Offshore wind turbines, like floating solar farms, can capture the stronger and more consistent wind that’s found at sea. Advancements in turbine design, like bladeless turbines, are reducing environmental impacts and noise pollution while increasing energy output.
#6 Green Hydrogen
Hydrogen has long been considered a potential fuel of the future, but producing it in a sustainable way has proved challenging. Green hydrogen, produced via renewable-powered electrolysis, is transforming the energy landscape. This “clean” hydrogen can power vehicles and industrial processes or be used as energy storage. This is valuable for industries that are difficult to electrify, like heavy transportation and steel manufacturing.
The Coradia iLint is the world’s first hydrogen-powered passenger train. It’s powered by a hydrogen fuel cell and emits only water and steam, reaching speeds up to 87 miles per hour with very little noise.
#7 Smart Grids
Much of the United States’ electric grid was built over fifty years ago. It’s no surprise that smart grids — digital communication systems that optimize energy distribution, monitor power usage and integrate renewable energy sources — will be playing a critical role in supporting the widespread adoption of renewable energy and enhancing energy resilience. Smart grids powered in part by the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technology can automatically detect and respond to fluctuations in energy supply and demand, reducing energy waste and improving efficiency.
#8 Geothermal Energy
Picture a city where all air conditioning and heating systems are powered entirely by the Earth’s natural heat (and your energy bills don’t impact your paycheck). Geothermal energy harnesses the consistent temperatures found below the Earth’s surface, providing a sustainable source of power for heating and cooling cities. In Reykjavik, Iceland, for example, nearly 90% of homes are already powered by geothermal energy! This sustainable approach to temperature control could become a standard feature in energy-efficient cities of tomorrow.
Lead the Transition to a Low-Carbon World With Mechanical Engineering
We live in a time of transition: one in which renewable energy is reshaping industries and cities and providing power to communities lacking traditional sources. As a result, there’s a critical demand for skilled engineers who can lead at the forefront of this changing landscape. The University of Texas at Austin’s entirely online master’s degree in mechanical engineering equips future engineers with the expertise needed to create a low-carbon future.
Whether you’re passionate about geothermal energy, solar power or simply leading the next wave of sustainable engineering, apply today to start your journey.
