Renewable Energy innovation has never been more critical as countries worldwide urgently strive to meet climate goals.

While progress has been made, a report from the World Economic Forum warns that growth in the global energy transition has been marginal in the past three years.

This article was last updated on 21 September 2023.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has called for urgent action, stating that greenhouse gas emissions must be almost halved by 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Many countries are turning to innovative Renewable Energy solutions, often integrated with advanced IT infrastructure, to achieve their emissions targets.
Here are five global energy innovations that make switching the world to Renewable Energy more achievable.

Solar and Wind Power Hybrid Systems

In many parts of the world, the transition to Renewable Energy increasingly relies on hybrid solar and wind power systems. French start-up Unéole has developed a scalable solution that integrates small wind turbines with photovoltaic panels in a single unit, making it ideal for densely populated urban areas globally.
This system can be installed on the flat roofs of offices and apartment buildings, producing 40% more energy than solar panels alone. This hybrid system generates power around the clock by harnessing sun and wind energy. Intelligent sensors and IT infrastructure can optimize energy output in real time.

Compact Wind Turbines Without Moving Parts

Large wind farms are typical in countries like Denmark and Germany, but a more compact and innovative Renewable Energy solution comes from the US-based Aeromine. This start-up has developed small, stationary wind turbines that can be installed on the edges of buildings without external moving parts.
Aeromine’s turbines are designed to work globally, particularly in urban and residential areas where large turbines aren’t practical. The aerodynamic fins use natural airflow, while IT systems manage energy output and integrate with other Renewable Energy sources like rooftop solar panels. The company claims this combination can meet 100% of a building’s energy needs when appropriately deployed.

Solar Canals Beyond the US

Solar panels over canals have global potential, with projects piloted in regions such as India and Spain. Covering irrigation canals with solar panels generates clean Renewable Energy and reduces water evaporation, which is critical in water-scarce regions worldwide.
For example, a similar project has been implemented in Gujarat, India, to reduce water loss while generating Renewable Energy. The IT infrastructure allows these solar canals to be monitored for efficiency, maximizing energy generation and water conservation.

Transparent Solar Windows

Transparent solar windows have the potential to revolutionize urban architecture worldwide. Based in California, Ubiquitous Technology developed a special glass that allows visible light to pass through while converting ultraviolet and infrared light into Renewable Energy electricity. This technology is adaptable to skyscrapers and residential buildings globally, helping cities reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.
The intelligent integration of these solar windows with IT infrastructure enables real-time energy monitoring, making it easier to optimize the balance between natural lighting and energy generation, regardless of the region.

Making Water from Air

Water scarcity is a growing global issue, affecting regions from sub-Saharan Africa to the Middle East. US-based Source has developed hydro panels that can generate Renewable Energy and clean drinking water from the air, offering a solution to areas with limited freshwater resources. These hydropanels are already used in over 50 countries, providing an innovative and sustainable water source.
Equipped with IoT sensors and IT systems, Source’s hydro panels monitor humidity and atmospheric conditions, ensuring maximum efficiency even in the aridest regions. This technology has the potential to provide water security in areas facing severe droughts. Renewable Energy Renewable Energy Renewable Energy Renewable Energy Renewable Energy Renewable Energy