We research and develop higher-performance and lower-cost materials and devices for energy generation, storage and conversion. Our target industries are electric vehicles, microgrids, photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, wearable power devices, and more.

UC San Diego's world-renowned microgrid serves as a real-world test-bed for our work, which is rooted in thoughtful analyses of the economics of distributed energy.

At every point along the way, we train and mentor our students to become tomorrow’s workforce for green and advanced energy.

SPEC News from the Jacobs School

New Cooling Tech Could Curb Data Centers' Rising Energy Demands

June 13, 2025

A new cooling technology could significantly improve the energy efficiency of data centers and high-powered electronics while reducing water use associated with cooling. By passively removing heat through evaporation, it offers a promising alternative to traditional cooling systems. Full Story

A Battery Breakthrough Inspired by a Can of Compressed Air

May 8, 2025

Breakthroughs often begin with simple curiosities. In this Q&A, engineering alumnus Cyrus Rustomji, Ph.D. ’15, reflects on how his ponderings about a can of compressed air, along with support from the university ecosystem and federal funding, fueled an innovation in battery technology that is solving tough challenges for U.S. private and public sectors. Full Story

News Archive

Real-world challenges inform our fundamental research. The Sustainable Power and Energy Center works closely with industry partners.
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UC San Diego's world-renowned microgrid serves as a real-world test-bed for our work, which is rooted in thoughtful analyses of the economics of distributed energy.