Achieving a Clean, Sustainable Energy and Water Future
Energy and water supply are two of the most important challenges facing humanity today. It is estimated that within the first half of the 21st century, we will need to produce twice as much energy and water as we do now to meet growing demand.
Dr. David P. Wilkinson, Canada Research Chair in Clean Energy and Electrochemical Technologies, is studying how to green existing processes for producing energy and water and introducing innovative, implementable solutions. His research is at the intersection of water treatment, carbon dioxide conversion and mitigation, and the production of chemicals and energy.
Electrochemical technologies could offer much-needed long-term solutions to energy and resource sustainability with minimal environmental impact. Significant opportunities exist for using electrochemical materials and technologies in different applications, including transportation, energy storage and conversion, water treatment, and the implementation of renewables and grid management.
Wilkinson and his research team are focusing on electrochemical and photochemical devices, electrochemical energy conversion and storage materials, and processes to create clean and sustainable energy and water. Their aim is to advance electrochemical devices, such as batteries, capacitors, fuel cells and electrolyzers, as well as develop functional materials at different length scales, such as nanostructured catalysts.
Wilkinson’s research will lead to sustainable solutions that can compete with existing technologies both economically and functionally. It also has significant potential to provide solutions to the global energy and water challenges facing our world today.