Innovations in Renewable Energy Construction: A Guide for the Future

Key Takeaways:


There is a crucial requirement to move away from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.

A sustainable future is a top priority and to achieve that, the industry must commit to reducing carbon emissions. 

For STEVENS, changing our process to use renewable energy is full of challenges but simultaneously full of opportunities.

We're going to dive into what new innovations have been made on renewable energy sources and how they will impact the future of construction.

Renewable Energy On The Rise

The change to renewable energy sources is being driven by two key factors. The first is the undeniable environmental impact of greenhouse gas emissions and the second is the economic benefits associated with renewable energy.

Greenhouse gas emissions are incredibly dangerous to our environment. To counteract the effects of greenhouse gas emissions, the construction industry has an obligation to switch to renewable energy sources. 

This shift not only serves environmental interests but also comes with many other benefits once perfected.

Renewable energy initiatives will create a multitude of new jobs and offer unique new opportunities.

At the front of this change are construction companies. Companies like STEVENS are pushing innovation of renewable energy forward.

This integration of renewable energy sources is evident in modern architectural designs. Structures are now not only fulfilling their functions but also contributing to a cleaner, greener future.

Utilizing The Sun With Solar Power

Solar panel advancements have allowed for major technological advancements in solar power. Thin-film solar cells are quickly replacing the traditional panels that were the standard for solar power.

These thin-film cells boast higher energy density, which allows for greater power generation in a smaller footprint.

Along with a smaller footprint, these new panels are much more efficient than traditional panels. Higher efficiency in a smaller spaces is making solar power more and more viable for large installations.

In North America specifically, there has been traction towards the movement. With real-time data systems, stakeholders are able to monitor the energy production real-time. This encourages more stakeholders to invest in solar technology which allows for more research to improve these systems.

The reliability of solar energy is also a point that cannot be ignored. Going forward, solar energy will play a key role in reducing the amount of power outages we experience.

Most importantly, studies have seen that solar power has notably reduced air pollution. As solar power continues to evolve, it promise a cleaner, more sustainable energy for the future.

Blown Away By The Power Of Wind

The primary argument on wind power is whether onshore or offshore is the best method. 

Onshore wind farms are typically located in wide open fields and are less costly and easier to install. Their biggest challenges are how much land they use, land use restrictions, and noise concerns.

Offshore wind farms are positioned in deep sea waters and benefit from consistent, robust oceanic winds. This results in heightened energy production. They are more difficult and expensive to install and currently pose potential risks to marine life. 

Future advancements could see both onshore and offshore farms becoming more efficient and safer.

Improved blade designs, upgraded materials, and advanced control systems contribute to more effective and resilient turbines.

These innovations ensure turbines harness the most energy from the wind and efficiently convert it into electricity.

By displacing fossil fuels in the energy sector, wind power substantially reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This creates a path toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.

For STEVENS, embracing and leveraging these innovations in wind power is integral to our mission of constructing a sustainable future.

Battery Storage

The development of battery storage is a crucial milestone in the renewable energy domain. Lithium-ion batteries are emerging as a transformative force across multiple industries.

One of the largest downsides of renewable energy is potential lack of day to day consistency. Solar panels are far less useful during a thunderstorm. Wind farms can't generate energy on a still day. Battery innovations help counter this issue.

Batteries being able to store large amounts of energy allows for us to properly manage renewable energy.

Continuous technological progress has heightened the efficiency and lifespan of these batteries. They have been established as a cornerstone in modern renewable energy setups.

Lithium-ion batteries aren't the sole contender. Green hydrogen is an intriguing alternative for energy storage.

The process of generating hydrogen from water using renewable electricity offers a sustainable means to store and release energy.

Hydrogen fuel cell systems convert hydrogen back into electricity. These systems are gaining prominence for their efficiency and eco-friendly attributes.

Air energy storage is a new innovation that utilizes compressed air for energy storage and subsequent electricity generation. 

These advancements highlight the industry's dedication to a cleaner future and its pursuit of innovative solutions.

Renewable Energy's Future In Construction

The construction sector is undergoing a transformation propelled by innovative materials and sustainable practices.

As the need for energy-efficient buildings grows, these new solutions become crucial to modern construction practices.

These solutions not only reduce energy usage but also foster a more sustainable and environmentally conscious built environment.

Sustainable alternatives like recycled aggregates and bio-based insulation types  are revolutionizing heavy industry and offering both ecological advantages and cost efficiency.

Simultaneously, the rise of clean energy start-ups is reshaping the energy sector. With cutting-edge technologies, these innovations expedite the shift towards renewable energy sources.

They bring fresh ideas, pioneering materials, and advanced approaches, steering the industry towards a greener future.

The role of clean energy supply chains is equally pivotal. A robust, transparent supply chain guarantees genuinely sustainable materials and technologies, reinforcing the industry's dedication to sustainability.

For construction giants like STEVENS, staying updated on these trends and innovations isn't just advantageous—it's crucial for future success.

Wrapping It Up

The shift towards renewable energy isn't just an environmental necessity; it's a roadmap toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.

In the face of escalating carbon emissions endangering our planet, the construction industry is a primary motivator in crafting a greener tomorrow.

STEVENS and companies like us aren't passive bystanders in this evolution; we're driving forces.

Through the adoption of cutting-edge practices in renewable energy construction, STEVENS and similar companies are establishing standards, diminishing carbon footprints, and guaranteeing a construction future that's resilient and environmentally accountable.