Sustainable Power and Energy Center
Solving key technical challenges in distributed energy generation, storage and power management.
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Solving key technical challenges in distributed energy generation, storage and power management.
Research
Solving key technical challenges in distributed energy generation, storage and power management.
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Solving key technical challenges in distributed energy generation, storage and power management.
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
Battery Manufacturing and Recycling Could Go Green With This ‘Glue’
October 9, 2026
A new battery binder — the glue that holds together a battery’s internal parts — could simplify both battery manufacturing and recycling by cutting down on toxic ingredients, energy use and waste. Batteries made with the new binder performed just as well as conventional lithium-ion batteries. Full Story
A Temporary Melting Liquid Could Help Build Better Perovskite Solar Cells and LEDs
October 8, 2026
Researchers developed a new way to make perovskite solar cells — a promising next-generation solar technology — more efficient and durable. Their crystallization technique produced more uniform perovskites with fewer defects, which boosted the performance of lab-made solar cells and LEDs. Full Story
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.
Industry Partners
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