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Iowa researchers shine light on the future of energy use.

This material, called “nano-structured graphene,” is a form of carbon that has unique properties, including high conductivity and flexibility. The researchers have demonstrated that nano-structured graphene can significantly reduce power consumption in data centers. They have conducted experiments on a prototype data center, and the results show that the cooling system can operate at a lower temperature, leading to a significant reduction in energy consumption.

Panthani’s lab is focused on developing atom-thin sheets of a silicon-germanium alloy which are stacked in layers and used to create highly energy efficient semiconductors, which can be used in power-hungry data centers. Using light to transmit data is not new. Companies have used fiber optic technology to transmit light across oceans, for example. But Panthani pointed out doing it on a much smaller scale, such as between components on the computer chips in data centers, is something quite different. “That’s really because there isn’t a material that can enable scalable, on-chip light sources,” Panthani explained. “The materials that we’re developing are intended to have properties, both the manufacturability and properties, that could enable that.”

The internet’s growing demand for power is a result of several factors. First, the internet itself is becoming more complex and sophisticated. This complexity is reflected in the increasing number of devices connected to the internet, from smartphones and laptops to smart appliances and industrial sensors. This interconnectedness creates a network of data traffic, which requires significant processing power and energy.

Preskill highlighted the clean energy sector’s potential to create jobs, reduce emissions, and improve public health. She emphasized the importance of supporting policies that encourage clean energy development and investment. The summary provided focuses on the economic benefits of clean energy in Illinois. It highlights the role of clean energy jobs in driving economic growth and the potential of the sector to create jobs, reduce emissions, and improve public health.

Preskill, a prominent figure in the clean energy industry, emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in the sector. He argues that a lack of diversity in the clean energy industry is a significant barrier to its growth and success. Preskill’s argument is based on the premise that diverse teams are more innovative and effective. He cites research that shows a correlation between diversity and improved performance in various industries, including the clean energy sector.

This gender pay gap persists across all energy sectors, from oil and gas to renewable energy. The gap is particularly pronounced in senior management positions, where women are significantly underrepresented. The reasons behind this gender pay gap are complex and multifaceted.

This statement highlights a critical issue: the lack of proactive measures by authorities in addressing potential hazards. Instead of proactively inspecting sites, authorities rely on reactive measures, such as responding to complaints, which can be time-consuming and inefficient. Imagine a construction site with faulty wiring, a potential fire hazard. If the authorities only react to complaints, it might take days or even weeks for them to discover the issue and take action.

Raquel Mason, senior legislative manager for the California Environmental Justice Alliance, said oil wells leak methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and release other toxic substances into the air and water. “Those pollutants that are coming off these wells can have different health-harming impacts like respiratory issues, different types of cancer, headaches, nosebleeds,” Mason outlined. “We hear about too often from community members who are living near these types of facilities.” A third bill would fine oil companies in the Inglewood Oil Field in Los Angeles $10,000 a month for operating low-producing wells near local neighborhoods. References: Virtual meeting Calif. Dept. of Conservation 2024

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