Sustainable energy

Developing the technologies, infrastructure, institutions and behaviors needed to transition energy systems toward improved energy efficiency, a greater mix of renewable resources and an affordable, resilient and reliable power grid

Sustainable Energy

A transition to sustainable energy resources and systems is necessary to meet environmental goals while preserving social and economic conditions. We are developing technologies, models and approaches to improve energy efficiency, management and behaviors. Our researchers are partnering with private and public sector stakeholders to foster renewable energy, smart grid and transportation innovations that reduce fossil fuel use and carbon emissions. We assess the costs and benefits of sustainable energy policies and the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Integration of advanced energy technologies

Developments in renewables, energy storage and electric transportation must be integrated into energy systems. We are researching the efficiency of and optimal locations for electric-vehicle charging stations as part of Smart Columbus — the Smart City program partly funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation that aims to improve the city’s transportation options.

Semiconductors and the power grid

Wide Band Gap semiconductors are used globally to improve efficiency and reduce power consumption in systems such as power supplies, solar inverters and motor drives. Our researchers are addressing the technical challenges of these devices for eventual commercialization and wide-scale integration of renewable energy in the grid.

Sustainable energy behavior

Ohio State researchers are making discoveries about the intersection of behavior, decision making and sustainability. We have found that though consumers may be motivated by environmental stewardship and other factors aside from savings, their faulty impression about their savings is key to whether a they want to continue in time-of-use programs where consumers pay more for energy when it’s in highest demand and less when usage typically dips.

October 02, 2019

Finding the “magic angle” to create a new superconductor

August 26, 2019

University sees sustainability improvements from energy partnership

July 30, 2019

Energy storage could reduce emissions that cause climate change

May 24, 2019

Buckeyes Place First in the EcoCAR Mobility Challenge Year One Competition

May 22, 2019

Ohio State Lima and Rhodes State Announce Energy Results, Special Recognition

May 22, 2019

Medical Center Improves Power Efficiency, Reduces Printing

May 16, 2019

DOE Funding to Energize Electric Power Research at Ohio State

May 13, 2019

Another Step Forward for a Promising New Battery to Store Clean Energy

April 04, 2019

New Federal Award Will Advance Power Electronics Research

March 20, 2019

Researchers discover new material to help power electronics

January 07, 2019

Nightlights for Stream Dwellers? No, Thanks

December 03, 2018

Utility customers overestimate cost savings with energy-conservation plans

February 09, 2017

Tipping Risks Call for Stringent Climate Policy

Yongyang Cai