6 breakthrough energy technologies can change the world

New technology products from self-driving cars to mini nuclear reactors are all a result of scientists' ideas to save energy, reduce harmful emissions, and smart control applications.

Self-driving car

According to National Geographic, some of the world's largest companies are investing in producing electric cars with partial or complete self-driving ability.The main reason is that these vehicles can help reduce traffic accidents and save energy through optimal route tracking and seat sharing.(Photo: TONY Avelar).

Cars use fuel cells

Japanese automaker Toyota has launched a Mirai model that converts hydrogen into electricity without leaving any emissions except water.The car made its debut in California, USA, in December 2015 and will be available in some European countries in the near future.Mirai's range reaches nearly 500 km.(Photo: Toyota).

Advanced nuclear reactor

Despite many reactions from environmentalists, nuclear energy has been noticed by scientists because of its potential to provide an abundant source of energy with little or no emissions in the form of heat radiation.This summer, researchers at the University of Massachusetts, USA, proposed a donut-shaped small reactor that could use new commercial superconductors to create a stronger magnetic field.This small fusion reactor can work well for a decade.(Photo: MIT).

Wave energy / tide

2015 marks the completion of the first wave energy project in the world, led by Carnegie Wave Energy, offshore Australia.This unique energy system allows the device to operate on the seabed, where it is not affected by heavy storms and can provide electricity for about 2,000 apartments.(Photo: Carnegie Wave Energy).

High efficiency solar energy

The price of solar energy has decreased by 70% since 2009, according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, USA.This is the result of research efforts by scientists to make solar panels smaller while providing better light absorption performance.(Photo: Thomas Kelsey).

Wind power is high

Wind is a low-cost form of renewable energy.In 2015, Keystone Tower Systems, UK, built the first overhead wind tower using a fully automated fast welding system.The wind will be stronger at higher altitudes and blow faster throughout the blades.High wind turbines can generate many times more electricity than conventional wind towers.(Photo: MIT).