From the Sun, the Moon and flames, to ultra-modern semiconductors, human history is inherently bound to light. In this special edition of Futuris, we meet scientists and engineers who are making our futures brighter.

EU-funded researchers have developed and patented tools to make photovoltaic generation more reliable, cost-effective and easier to integrate into the grid, providing a boost to solar power SMEs and helping to make sustainable energy more attractive to businesses and end users. Commercial spin-offs are marketing the results in Europe and beyond.

Coal-based power stations and industrial facilities are largely powered by harmful fossil fuels. If we replaced fossil fuels with solid biofuels, Europe would dramatically reduce its CO2 emissions. The EU-funded SECTOR project has optimised the production of new solid biofuels - so-called torrefied pellets. Standards to characterise the new properties are now being negotiated, and the product is ready for broad use.

Brussels, 5 July 2016

Engaging consumers towards energy efficiency aims at changing consumer behaviour with respect to the uptake of sustainable energy solutions including: