New solar cell technology sparks interest

Cheaper and more efficient solar cell technology could soon appear on our roofs, thanks to a breakthrough in photovoltaic cell design.

'Watched' households use less energy

People use less energy when they know their use is being monitored, a new US study has found.

Microbial duo boost biofuel production

A fungus and a bacteria have teamed up to produce biofuel from corn stalks and leaves.

Graphene boosts energy storage potential

A revolutionary new device that could extend the energy capacity of renewable technologies and portable electronic devices from smart phones to electric cars has been developed by Australian scientists.

Common chemical offers energy storage hope

A chemical found in everything from tennis court lines to low-fat milk could also help store energy produced by renewable sources, Australian scientists say.

Carbon wires may soon rival copper

Scientists have made a strong, lightweight wire from carbon that might eventually be a rival to copper.

Trials show no stopping 'talking' cars

Waiting for a green light at the intersection may be a thing of the past following successful trials of "talking car" technology that includes road infrastructure.

Moon mission paves way to 'green' steel

The dream of 'green' steel is a reality with US scientists unveiling a new method of extracting metallic iron from its ore while curbing carbon dioxide emissions.

Helmets reduce head injury severity

Bicycle riders without a helmet are almost six times more likely to suffer a severe head injury than a helmeted rider, a new Australian study shows.

Nanosheets soak up oil spills

Scientists have manufactured a lightweight and reusable material that can absorb up to 33 times its weight in certain chemicals - - a possible new tool against water pollution.

Audit tallies Australia's carbon budget

Australia exports 2.5 times more carbon in fossil fuels than it emits from burning them, the most recent analysis of the nation's carbon stocks shows.

Humble battery 'deserves more research'

There should be major research establishments devoted to battery technology, says an electrochemist who is being honoured this Australia Day.

Scientists mimic plants to make zero-carbon fuel

Scientists are exploring how to mimic the way plants transform sunlight into energy and produce hydrogen to fuel vehicles.

Dark matter pioneer nets PM's science prize

A renowned astronomer who introduced the revolutionary concept of dark matter has been awarded one of Australia's top science prizes.

New record for turning heat into power

Scientists in the United States have developed a material that beats the record for converting waste heat into power.