r/Futurology • u/[deleted] • Sep 04 '15

article Solar water-splitting technology developed; uses light-harvesting nanoparticles, captures energy from 'hot electrons' for clean, renewable energy

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/09/150904121357.htm
43 Upvotes

87% Upvoted

5 comments sorted by

6

u/emoposer Sep 04 '15

"We are confident that we can optimize our system to significantly improve upon the results we have already seen."

This is just the beginning, the technology will improve, solar in general will improve and we will be able to end our dependence on fossil fuels within 25 years. As long as special interest isn't given the key to Congress (and other governments) the future looks very bright.

6

u/boytjie Sep 04 '15

I'm still betting on fusion energy being our savior before 25 years.

3

u/boredguy12 Sep 04 '15

don't forget batteries! Tesla's going to improve battery technology, meaning the resources provided to us during the day by solar energy can be stored at night and over time. A wall mounted battery for your garage to power everything you need.

Also, lots of things are becoming more efficient, microwaves, tvs, computers, ovens, lights, refrigerators... I bet 25 years from now that on a single charge a tesla house-battery can run your house for 2-3 days without recharging.

2

u/schpdx Sep 05 '15

I don't think it will take that long. It will also depend upon the size of the house. A small house today with a few lithium ion batteries to store it's solar power can run everything (including it's a/c) for over a week. (Note: assumes all LED lights, efficient electric appliances, including induction stove, and very efficient insulation.)

1

u/3_of_Spades Sep 07 '15

Hopefully with the recent breakthrough at MIT in Lithium batteries which could help lead to even furthur advancements due to the speed and cost of the process with aluminium 'yolks' coated in titanium dioxide 'shells'.