➀ The Hochschule Bochum researchers have achieved a significant milestone in a pioneering project for decentralized green hydrogen usage in mini-grids with partners SFC Energy AG and Green Power Brains. ➁ The system integrates a solar PV plant with a 200 kWp capacity and a 20 kW PEM electrolysis system, storing hydrogen in 48 high-pressure gas cylinders. ➂ The project focuses on the sustainability assessment and global scalability potential of hydrogen technologies for local applications, with the goal of developing a roadmap for integrating green hydrogen into decentralized energy systems in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Ghana.

➀ Resilience will be a key focus for electronics supply chains in 2025, as companies seek to identify lower-risk components and localize their supply bases. ➁ AI integration in supply chains will intensify, with a focus on new applications for parsing supply chain intelligence and automating tasks. ➂ A new emphasis on sustainability will see organizations tackle scope-3 emissions in their supply chains, contributing to a deeper understanding of individual component emissions. ➃ Despite improvements, global chip shortages and long manufacturing lead times will continue to challenge the industry.

➀ The Fraunhofer Institute for Production Systems and Design Technology IPK presents research projects and solutions addressing the challenges of modern manufacturing; ➁ The focus is on data management, flexible manufacturing processes, machine efficiency, human resource support, and sustainable production; ➂ The article highlights the importance of holistic system solutions and interdisciplinary collaboration in research and innovation.

➀ Gartner predicts datacentres will require 160% more electricity within two years due to AI demands, with power for AI-optimised servers expected to reach 500 terawatt-hours per year by 2027; ➁ By 2027, 40% of datacentres will be constrained by power shortages, and the growth of new AI datacentres will slow down; ➂ Long-term solutions include new battery storage technologies and clean power sources like small nuclear reactors.

➀ A new real lab was opened at the Production Technology Center (PTZ) Berlin to support the transformation of the vehicle and supplier industry in the Berlin-Brandenburg region. The lab aims to facilitate the transition to a more environmentally friendly and efficient production. ➁ The lab offers modern manufacturing and assembly technologies, a testing environment for new technologies, and practical training programs. ➂ A digital production assistant is being researched to address the skilled labor shortage.

➀ Qkera, a startup from Technische Universität München, has developed new electrolyte components for solid-state batteries with high energy density and stability. The technology aims to break through battery technology for electromobility and other fields. ➁ The electrolytes consist of a lithium-ion-conducting ceramic-oxide material, offering safety and sustainability benefits. ➂ Qkera received support from TUM Venture Lab ChemSPACE and aims to send prototypes to battery manufacturers by the end of this year.

➀ Qkera, a startup from the Technical University of Munich, has developed new electrolyte components for solid-state batteries. The technology aims to offer high energy density, stability, and low production costs. ➁ The company's electrolytes are made of a lithium-ion conducting oxide ceramic, which offers advantages in safety and sustainability. ➂ Qkera has received support from the TUM Venture Lab and has been selected as one of the 25 best science startups worldwide by the Falling Walls Science Summit.

➀ Researchers from Politecnico di Milano and collaborating institutions developed hydrophobic paper using the mechanical properties and water resistance of cellulose nanofibers. The study aims to create a sustainable, high-performance material for packaging and biomedical applications. ➁ The approach combines short protein chains (peptides) with cellulose nanofibers without chemical modification, enhancing their mechanical performance and water resistance. ➂ Incorporating fluorine atoms into the peptides creates a structured hydrophobic film, improving water resistance while maintaining biocompatibility and sustainability.

➀ Researchers developed a novel silica/klucel nanocomposite for efficient lead ion removal from wastewater; ➁ The nanocomposite was characterized for its adsorption capacity, kinetics, and mechanisms, showing high removal efficiency and sustainability; ➂ The study highlights the potential of the nanocomposite as a sustainable solution for wastewater treatment.

➀ The Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems (IPMS) is a key player in microchip manufacturing with its comprehensive range of services from lab to fab. ➁ The institute focuses on memory technologies, sensors, actuators, and MEMS systems, with a strong emphasis on sustainable microelectronics. ➂ Fraunhofer IPMS collaborates with industry leaders and offers a full-service offering for MEMS, MOEMS, and microdisplay technologies, including pilot production and technology transfer support.

➀ Microsoft is experimenting with cross-laminated timber (CLT) for new data centers in Northern Virginia to reduce its carbon footprint. ➁ The company estimates that using wood in its data centers will cut its carbon footprint by 35% compared to steel construction. ➂ Greenhouse emissions are reduced by 65% when CLT replaces precast concrete.

➀ Discussing the challenges faced in electric-vehicle charging infrastructure; ➁ Analyzing the impact on energy consumption and sustainability; ➂ Exploring potential solutions and future developments in the field.

➀ Prof. Martin Braun will take over the leadership of Fraunhofer IEE in Kassel on November 1, 2024. He is also a professor at the University of Kassel. ➁ Fraunhofer IEE focuses on research and development of sustainable electrical energy systems and energy system technology. ➂ Since 1988, the institute has been developing solutions to advance the energy transition and digitalization in the energy sector.

➀ Researchers at ICFO have developed a post-deposition in situ passivation technique to minimize surface defects in eco-friendly solar cells, achieving a new efficiency record; ➁ The technique improves surface passivation and optoelectronic properties of nanocrystal ink films, leading to higher efficiency solar cells; ➂ The team synthesized AgBiS2 nanocrystal ink with a multifunctional molecular agent for enhanced performance.

➀ Melexis has introduced a 24V/60W sensorless single-coil BLDC driver for motor, fan, and pump applications in consumer and industrial electronics; ➁ The MLX90416 driver provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional solutions, simplifying motor design and manufacturing; ➂ It offers plug-and-play setup with a user-friendly GUI, enabling rapid deployment and adaptability; ➃ The driver is suitable for various applications, including white goods, fans, air fryers, ovens, and industrial systems.

➀ The Research Factory of Microelectronics Germany (FMD) awarded the 'Green ICT Award' for outstanding theses in sustainable ICT. The award promotes interest in sustainable microelectronics and provides a platform for young researchers.➁ Joseph Winkler won first place with his thesis on high-efficiency 48V DC-DC converter design.➂ The award ceremony took place during the Green ICT Connect conference, which focuses on sustainable microelectronics and innovation.

➀ Blockchain technology is reshaping EV data handling and connectivity; ➁ It provides an immutable record for automotive parts, reducing the risk of counterfeits and streamlining vehicle registration; ➂ Blockchain applications include digital battery passports, carbon credit systems, and secure payment infrastructures for EV charging.

➀ The Fraunhofer ICT in Pfinztal researches renewable energy power generation. The campus is powered by wind turbines and photovoltaic systems. After six years, the institute presents a positive balance and outlines future expansion plans. ➁ A 2-MW wind turbine and a 6 MWh redox-flow battery have been in operation since mid-2018. A 690 kWp photovoltaic system was added in summer 2023. ➂ The combination of wind, solar energy, and large-scale batteries provides insights for micro-grid design and operation. The research aims to reduce costs and ensure technical safety and resilience for a cost-effective and secure energy transition.

➀ Christophe Fouquet, ASML's president and CEO, discusses the company's commitment to sustainability and the importance of chip production in Asia despite Western efforts to build up production in their own countries. ➁ Fouquet emphasizes the need for Europe and the U.S. to address 'costs and flexibility' to have a global impact. ➂ The article highlights ASML's role in the chip industry and its recent expansion into Europe with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.'s new plant.

➀ The UKRI has allocated £25m for sustainable electronics design and manufacturing through its Accelerating the Green Economy programme. ➁ Glasgow University will lead a four-year project in collaboration with other institutions to tackle sustainability challenges in the electronics industry. ➂ The focus will be on reducing electronic waste, minimising reliance on critical raw materials, and reducing carbon footprints.