Energy Conversion System Research Articles

Selectivity-Enhanced Electroreduction of CO2 to CO at Novel Ru-Linked-GO Nanohybrids: the Role of Nanoarchitecture.

Recently, global-scale efforts have been conducted for the electroreduction of CO2 as a potentially beneficial pathway for the conversion of greenhouse gases to useful chemicals and renewable fuels. This study focuses on the development of selective and sustainable electrocatalysts for the reduction of aqueous CO2 to CO. A RuIIcomplex [Ru(tptz)(ACN)Cl2] (RCMP) (tptz = 2,4,6-tris(2-pyridyl)-1,3,5-triazine, ACN = acetonitrile) was prepared as a molecular electrocatalyst for the CO2 reduction reaction in an aqueous solution. Density functional theory-calculated frontier molecular orbitals suggested that the tptz ligand plays a key role in dictating the electrocatalytic reactions. The RCMP electrocatalyst was grafted onto the graphene oxide (GO) surface both noncovalently (GO/RCMP) and covalently (GO-RCMP). The field emission scanning electron microscopy and elemental distribution analyses revealed the homogeneous distribution of the complex onto the GO sheet. The photoluminescence spectra confirmed accelerated charge-transfer in both nanohybrids. Compared to the bare complex, the GO-RCMP and GO/RCMP nanohybrids showed enhanced electrocatalytic activity, achieving >95% and 90% Faradaic efficiencies for CO production at more positive onset potentials, respectively. The GO-RCMP nanohybrid demonstrated outstanding electrocatalytic activity with a current of ∼84 μA. The study offers a perspective on outer- and inner-sphere electron-transfer mechanisms for electrochemical energy conversion systems.

Maximum Power Point Tracking control of a variable speed wind turbine via a T-S fuzzy model-based approach

This paper proposes a multi-objective H2/H ∞ maximum power tracking control of a variable speed wind turbine to minimize the H2 tracking error and ensure the H ∞ model reference-tracking performance, simultaneously. The optimal condition is obtained via a boost converter use, which adapts the load impedance to the wind turbine generator. Thus, based on the fuzzy T-S model, a multi-objective Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller is developed, ensuring maximum power transfer, despite wind speed variation and system uncertainty. To specify the optimal trajectory to follow, a TS reference model is proposed taking as input the optimal rectified DC current. The conditions of stability and stabilization are expressed in terms of linear matrix inequality (LMI) for uncertain and disturbed T-S models leading to determining the controller gains. Finally, an example of MPP tracking applied to a Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS) illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed fuzzy control law.

Artificial neural network-based direct power control to enhance the performance of a PMSG-wind energy conversion system under real wind speed and parameter uncertainties: An experimental validation

With the increasing emphasis on embedding advanced technology into system controls, the Direct Power Control (DPC) approach has garnered considerable attention due to its simple and highly adaptable algorithm. This approach has been increasingly recognized in numerous applications. However, the variable frequency, harmonic distortion of the currents, and power ripples caused by Hysteresis controllers and switching tables decrease its effectiveness and robustness, affecting the system’s performance. For this reason, this paper proposed a new DPC based on Artificial Neural Network (ANN) approaches. In this approach, the hysteresis comparator and the switching table are substituted with ANN controllers and then applied on both sides: machine-side converter (MSC) and grid-side converter (GSC) of a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator based Wind Energy Conversion System (PMSG-WECS). Moreover, to make the system more efficient in varying wind conditions, this study expands the utilization of the artificial neural networks (ANN) to encompass the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control strategy. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach on the system behaviors, a simulation test was carried out in the Matlab/Simulink environment, using a real wind profile of a Moroccan city (Essaouira). In comparison to the classical DPC control, the simulation results showed the superior performance of the proposed ANN-DPC control in terms of reference tracking, response time, overshoot, precision, and its capacity to reduce the rate of power ripples and total harmonic distortion (THD) in the injected currents. Furthermore, a robustness test was also included in this work to check the robustness of the proposed control against parameters variation. In conclusion, the feasibility and effectiveness of the ANN-DPC control approach were confirmed through experimental validation using the dSPACE DS1104 board.

A Comparative Analysis on Proportional-Integral and Fuzzy-Logic Control Strategies for Doubly-Fed Induction Generators

This research investigates superior control methods for optimize the performance of Doubly-Fed Induction Generators in wind energy conversion systems. This proposed work, compares the well-established Proportional-Integral controller, with a Fuzzy Logic controller, known for its effectiveness in managing non-linear systems. To achieve a thorough analysis, this research develops a detailed mathematical model, specifically adopted to the DFIG system. It employs a PI controller for both the rotor-side and grid-side converters of the DFIG system. To enhance performance, a Fuzzy Logic controller is introduced to replace the PI controller, based on real-time operating conditions and gain values. Extensive simulations evaluate rigorously various performance metrics of the DFIG system under different control strategies. This analysis provides valuable insights to guide the selection of optimal control techniques, for wind energy systems using DFIGs. The analysis contributes to advancements in reliability, and efficiency for DFIG-based wind-energy systems, furthering the development of sustainable energy solutions.

Enhanced electrochemical O2 reduction to H2O2 through resilient hybrid catalysts modified with DMSO in electro-Fenton

In the face of challenges presented by rapid urbanization and industrialization, the surge in dye wastewater has emerged as a prominent concern. This study introduces a pioneering novel approach aimed at augmenting the electrocatalytic efficiency of O2 reduction to H2O2 through the modification of a hybrid catalyst with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to construct gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs). The hybrid catalyst, consisting of carbon black and DMSO, was meticulously fabricated, and its electrocatalytic activity was thoroughly investigated using various characterization techniques. Within 180 min, the 3 %DM cathode showcased efficient H2O2 generation, reaching 850 μM, and remarkable oxygen utilization, achieving 60.49 %. Intriguingly, the fabricated 3 %DM hybrid catalyst maintained a three-phase interfacial (TPI) due to its super-hydrophilic property. This study elucidates the pivotal role of DMSO in enhancing the performance of hybrid catalysts for O2 reduction to H2O2. The insights provide valuable perspectives into the development of efficient and resilient electrochemical systems for sustainable energy conversion and environmental applications.

Chitosan Composite Membrane with Efficient Hydroxide Ion Transport via Nano-Confined Hydrogen Bonding Network for Alkaline Zinc-Based Flow Batteries.

The development of membranes with rapid and selective ionic transport is imperative for diverse electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems, including fuel cells and flow batteries. However, the practical application of membranes is significantly hindered by their limited conductivity and stability under strong alkaline conditions. Herein, a unique composite membrane decorated with functional Cu2+ cross-linked chitosan (Cts-Cu-M) is reported and their high hydroxide ion conductivity and stability in alkaline flow batteries are demonstrated. The underlying hydroxide ions transport of the membrane through Cu2+ coordinated nano-confined channels with abundant hydrogen bonding network via Grotthuss (proton hopping) mechanism is proposed. Consequently, the Cts-Cu-M membrane achieves high hydroxide ion conductivity with an area resistance of 0.17Ωcm2 and enables an alkaline zinc-based flow battery to operate at 320mAcm-2, along with an energy efficiency of ≈80%. Furthermore, the membrane enables the battery for 200cycles of long-cycle stability at a current density of 200mAcm-2. This study offers an in-depth understanding of ion transport for the design and preparation of high-performance membranes for energy storage devices and beyond.

Moth Flame Algorithm to Optimize the Size and Location of Energy Storage Units in a Radial Distribution Network to mitigate Power Loss

The ideal placements and capacities for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) sources in a distributed generation (DG) environment have an impact on power losses in the distribution network. Therefore, engineers are quite concerned with DG and BESS. The output from DG is, however, typically unpredictable and inconsistent. The secure and stable functioning of the power system will be impacted to varying degrees when it is connected to various sites, capabilities, and power grids. To provide a safer, more stable, more dependable, as well as more effective power grid operation, power grid planners must take the impact of capacity, type, and location into account while choosing the best BESS accessibility method. The objective is to choose bus stops with the right potential and minimal loss. This study demonstrates how to use a Moth Flame Optimization Algorithm (MFOA) to establish the appropriate battery energy storage system (BESS) sizing in a hybrid solar and wind energy conversion system (WECS) generation integrated in a radial distribution network. This research investigates the optimal capacities and allotment of the BESSs within a 33-bus and 69-bus radial network of distribution for the maximum power dissipation reduction. This research also provides a framework for carrying out conservation voltage reduction (CVR) when distributed energy resources like solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, WECS, and energy storage systems (ESSs) are connected into distribution networks. The simulation has been conducted using Matlab code and the suggested method's output is compared with Firefly Algorithm (FA), Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Ant Colony Algorithms (ACA) and evaluated against other results.

Synergetic effect of spontaneous Fe diffusion for enabling immediately switchable operations in NiFe-supported solid oxide cells

Solid oxide cells (SOCs) are highly efficient energy conversion systems, offering switchable capabilities for power and fuel production. NiFe metal-supported structures in SOCs show promising advantages in structural stability and scalability. This study explores the synergistic effect of spontaneous Fe diffusion in NiFe-supported SOCs, enhancing alloy catalyst formation in the electrode and improving the sinterability of the zirconia-based electrolyte. This results in increased activity for carbon fuel reactions, resistance to coking, and a remarkably low ohmic resistance of 0.06 Ω cm2 at 800 °C. The NiFe support also enhances structural stability, enabling reversible and multifuel operation. The single cell achieves exceptional maximum power densities of 2.6 and 2.0 W cm−2 in fuel cell mode (3 % H2O/H2 and dry CO) and current densities of − 1.51 and − 1.38 A cm−2 in electrolysis cell mode (1.3 V, 20 % H2O/H2 and 20 % CO2/CO) at 800 °C, respectively.

Modified Multimachine Power System Design with DFIG-WECS and Damping Controller

Rotor angle stability, which involves electromechanical oscillation damping and control, is very important in maintaining the stability of modern power grid systems. Renewable energy sources like wind energy are undergoing massive integration into modern power grid systems to meet energy demands and decarbonize power grid systems of carbon emissions from fossil fuel generators. To enable increased integration of wind renewable energy sources, precise models are needed for research and analytical purposes. Wind renewable energy is generated through a wind energy conversion system (WECS); one such conversion system is the doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) system. In this study, a precise model of a DFIG-WECS was modeled and integrated into the IEEE’s two-area Kundur power test system, which represents the available power grid system, and is also a multimachine power system using the Matlab/Simulink 2023 software. A damping controller known as the power system stabilizer (PSS), whose optimal parameters were obtained using artificial eco-system optimization (AEO), was also incorporated into the integrated power grid system to control and damp electromechanical oscillations. The results showed that the PSS damping controller effectively damped electromechanical oscillations in the integrated power grid system.

Ion-Concentration-Hopping Heterolayer Gel for Ultrahigh Gradient Energy Conversion.

Conventional solid ion channel systems relying on single one- or two-dimensional confined nanochannels enabled selective and ultrafast convective ion transport. However, due to intrinsic solid channel stacking, these systems often face pore-pore polarization and ion concentration blockage, thereby restricting their efficiency in macroscale ion transport. Here, we constructed a soft heterolayer-gel system that integrated an ion-selective hydrogel layer with a water-barrier organogel layer, achieving ultrahigh cation selectivity and flux and effectively providing high-efficiency gradient energy conversion on a macroscale order of magnitude. Specifically, the hydrogel layer featured an unconfined 3D network, where the fluctuations of highly hydrated polyelectrolyte chains driven by thermal dynamics enhanced cation selectivity and mitigated transfer energy barriers. Such chain fluctuation mechanisms facilitated ion-cluster internal transmission, thereby enhancing ion concentration hopping for more efficient ion-selective transport. Compared to the existing rigid nanochannel-based gradient energy conversion systems, such a heterogel-based power generator exhibited a record power density of 192.90 and 1.07 W/m2 at the square micrometer scale and square centimeter scale, respectively (under a 500-fold artificial solution). We anticipate that such heterolayer gels would be a promising candidate for energy separation and storage applications.

Chemically Mediated Artificial Electron Transport Chain.

Electron transport chains (ETCs) are ubiquitous in nearly all living systems. Replicating the complexity and control inherent in these multicomponent systems using ensembles of small molecules opens up promising avenues for molecular therapeutics, catalyst design, and the development of innovative energy conversion and storage systems. Here, we present a noncovalent, multistep artificial electron transport chains comprising cyclo[8]pyrrole (1), a meso-aryl hexaphyrin(1.0.1.0.1.0) (naphthorosarin 2), and the small molecules I2 and trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). Specifically, we show that 1) electron transfer occurs from 1 to give I3 - upon the addition of I2, 2) proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) from 1 to give H 3 2 •2+ and H 3 2 + upon the addition of TFA to a dichloromethane mixture of 1 and 2, and 3) that further, stepwise treatment of 1 and 2 with I2 and TFA promotes electron transport from 1 to give first I3 - and then H 3 2 •2+ and H 3 2 + . The present findings are substantiated through UV-vis-NIR, 1H NMR, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopic analyses, cyclic voltammetry studies, and DFT calculations. Single-crystal structure analyses were used to characterize compounds in varying redox states.

Control of DFIG-based microgrid and seamless transition from stator connected and disconnected modes

This study aims to ameliorate the contribution capability of doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) to participate in standalone microgrid operation. The islanded microgrid consists of a solar photovoltaic array for solar energy conversion and battery energy storage in addition to DFIG-based wind energy conversion system. Using a simplified control approach, the study describes multi-mode operation of a DFIG-based AC/DC microgrid using a stator-side solid-state transition switch (SSTS). Using SSTS operation, the DFIG stator can be seamlessly disconnected and reconnected from the point of common coupling without interrupting power to the loads in the microgrid. Additionally, non-ideal AC loads can be handled efficiently without the need for computationally exhaustive approaches to enhance stator voltages and currents.

A new passive‐based active disturbance rejection control for PMSG system with saturation constraints

AbstractThe disturbance in wind energy conversion system has a serious negative impact on the maximum power tracking performance of the system, and the saturation constraint problem also seriously restricts the stability of the control system. Therefore, a novel model compensation passive‐based active disturbance rejection control strategy is proposed to suppress the disturbance and saturation constraints, thus improving the tracking performance of the permanent magnet synchronous generator system in this paper. Taking advantage of the fact that active disturbance rejection control technology can estimate and compensate for the disturbances of the system in real time, a model compensation active disturbance rejection control method is proposed to make the system more robust to the changes in its own parameters and external disturbance. At the same time, the control input signal of the controller is given. A model compensation passive‐based active disturbance rejection controller is designed by using the passive control method, and the nonlinear sector method is introduced to solve the saturation constraint problem of the system. Simulation results show that the control strategy can effectively reduce overshoot, improve the system's response speed, have a good anti‐interference ability, and effectively suppress the influence of saturation constraints on the system.

From Atomic-Level Synthesis to Device-Scale Reactors: A Multiscale Approach to Water Electrolysis.

ConspectusThe development of an advanced energy conversion system for water electrolysis with high efficiency and durability is of great significance for a hydrogen-powered society. This progress relies on the fabrication of electrocatalysts with superior electrochemical performance. Despite decades of advancements in exploring high-performance noble and non-noble metal electrocatalysts, several challenges persist at both the micro- and macrolevels in the field of water electrolysis.At the microlevel, which encompasses electrocatalyst synthesis and characterization, design strategies for high-performance electrocatalysts have primarily focused on interface chemical engineering. However, comprehensive understanding and investigation of interface chemical engineering across various length scales, from micrometers to atomic scales, are still lacking. This deficiency hampers the rational design of catalysts with optimal performance. Under harsh reaction conditions, such as high bias potential and highly acidic or alkaline media, the surface of catalyst materials is susceptible to undergoing "reconstruction", deviating from what is observed through ex situ characterization techniques postsynthesis. Conventional ex situ characterization methods do not provide an accurate depiction of the catalyst's structural evolution during the electrocatalytic reaction, hindering the exploration of the catalytic mechanism.At the macrolevel, pertaining to catalysis-performance evaluation systems and devices, traditional laboratory settings employ a conventional three-electrode or two-electrode system to assess the catalytic performance of electrocatalysts. However, this approach does not accurately simulate hydrogen production under realistic industrial conditions, such as elevated temperatures (60-70 °C), high current densities exceeding 0.5 A cm-2, and flowing electrolytes. To address this limitation, it is crucial to develop testing equipment and methodologies that replicate the actual industrial conditions.In this Account, we propose a multiscale research framework for water electrolysis, spanning from microscale synthesis to macroscale scaled reactor design. Our approach focuses on the design and evaluation of high-performance HER/OER (hydrogen evolution reaction/oxygen evolution reaction) electrocatalysts, incorporating the following strategies: Leveraging principles of interface chemical engineering across various length scales (micrometers, nanometers, and atoms) enables the design of catalyst materials that enhance both activity and durability. This approach provides a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between the catalyst structure and activity, implementing in situ/operando characterization techniques to monitor dynamic interfacial reactions and surface reconstruction processes. This facilitates a profound exploration of catalytic reaction mechanisms, offering insights into the catalyst's structural evolution during the electrocatalytic reaction. We construct a laboratory-scale membrane electrode assembly (MEA) electrochemical reactor capable of operating at high current densities (>1 A cm-2) to evaluate the electrocatalytic performance under simulated industrial conditions. This ensures objective and authentic assessments of the catalyst application potential. Throughout the following sections, we illustrate the application of interface chemical engineering on different length scales in designing diverse electrocatalyst materials. We rely on in situ characterization techniques to gain a profound understanding of the mechanisms behind the HER and OER. Additionally, we describe the development of both acidic and alkaline MEA electrochemical reactors to enhance the precision of electrocatalytic performance evaluation. Finally, we provide a concise overview of the challenges and opportunities in this field.

Metal-organic frameworks based on ternary transition metal ions for high-performance lithium ion batteries

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) materials have been widely researched in energy conversion systems because of porosity and active sites. However, applying MOF as an electrode material remains challenging because of its structural instability. In this work, two novel materials are designed to promote the research of MOFs-based electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Two ternary metallic ions (Mn2+, Co2+, Ni2+) constituent MOFs with two- and three-dimensional (3D) structures are synthesized by combining with benzene-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexacarboxylate (BHC) ligand via a simple hydrothermal method. The structures of MCN-1 and MCN-2 belong to monoclinic symmetry, C2/c space group. The 3D structure of MCN-2 can enhance the interfacial contact between electrode materials and electrolytes and provide more active sites for the storage of Li+. Electrochemical experiments show that the 3D structure ternary MOF delivers an ultra-high capacity of 807.3 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 100 mA g−1, even though a phase transition occurs during the electrochemical process. This superior performance is rationally owing to the synergetic mechanism of intercalation/deintercalation combined with capacitance behavior, which has broad application prospects as anode material.

Accuracy Evaluation of Monte Carlo Simulation Results Using ENDF/B-VIII.0 and JENDL-5 Libraries for 10 MWth Micro Heat Pipe-Cooled Reactor

The micro heat pipe-cooled reactor is an innovative type of reactor that utilizes heat pipes to cool its core. It consists of a reactor core, an energy conversion system, shielding, and a heat removal system. This reactor shows great potential as a viable option for supplying electricity in remote areas. By incorporating a monolithic core with heat pipes and an efficient heat conversion system, this reactor design eliminates the need for a main pipeline, circulating pump, and auxiliary equipment, resulting in a cost-effective, compact, and transportable system. The monolithic reactor design has undergone significant advancements in neutronics and thermal hydraulics. This article focuses on evaluating the impact of the latest released nuclear data libraries, ENDF/B-VIII.0 and JENDL-5, on calculated neutronics and kinetics parameters. The total keff uncertainty was propagated and found to be significant for both recently evaluated nuclear data libraries (678.52 pcm for ENDF/B-VIII.0 and 525.91 pcm for JENDL-5, respectively). The total uncertainty originated from nuclear data was evaluated for total ν, reaction cross sections, and angular distributions in the case of JENDL-5, and for ENDF/B-VIII.0, uncertainty from angular distributions was not included because of the unavailability of its multigroup structure covariance matrices. The results reveal that the largest contributor for ENDF/B-VIII.0 is 235U total (409.18 pcm), while that for JENDL-5 is 56Fe capture cross section (361.93 pcm). For the kinetic parameter’s uncertainty, the impact on the total βeff, leff, and λeff simulation results was found to be not significant (about 1%).

Stabilization of Lattice Oxygen Evolution Reactions in Oxophilic Ce-Mediated Bi/BiCeO1.8H Electrocatalysts for Efficient Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers.

The lattice oxygen mechanism (LOM) offers an efficient reaction pathway for oxygen evolution reactions (OERs) in energy storage and conversion systems. Owing to the involvement of active lattice oxygen enhancing electrochemical activity, addressing the structural and electrochemical stabilities of LOM materials is crucial. Herein, a heterostructure (Bi/BiCeO1.8H) containing abundant under-coordinated oxygen atoms having oxygen nonbonding states is synthesized by a simple electrochemical deposition method. Given the difference in reduction potentials between Bi and Ce, partially reduced Bi nanoparticles and surrounding under-coordinated oxygen atoms are generated in BiCeO1.8H. It is found that the lattice oxygen can be activated as a reactant of the OER when the valence state of Bi increases to Bi5+, leading to increased metal-oxygen covalency and that the oxophilic Ce3+/4+ redox couple can maintain the Bi nanoparticles and surrounding under-coordinated oxygen atoms by preventing over-oxidation of Bi. The anion exchange membrane water electrolyzer with Bi/BiCeO1.8H exhibits a low cell voltage of 1.79 V even at a high practical current density of 1.0 A cm-2. Furthermore, the cell performance remains significantly stable over 100 h with only a 2.2% increase in the initial cell voltage, demonstrating sustainable lattice oxygen redox.

The Emerging Heteroepitaxial NiSe2/Nb2C: A Two‐In‐One Bi‐Functional Material Architecture for Electrocatalytic and Supercapattery Application

AbstractThe rational design of electrode materials is pivotal for optimizing the performance of energy storage and conversion systems such as supercapattery and electrocatalysis. In this study, a one‐step supercritical fluid synthesis is presented to craft a unique heteroepitaxial composite, incorporating nickel di‐selenide nanoparticles on niobium carbide MXene nanosheets in various ratios. The integration of 2D nanosheets enhances the kinetics of the electrode reaction process, while NiSe2 facilitates efficient charge transport in MXene. The composite demonstrated superior performance with the 1:2 ratio of NiSe2/Nb2CTx demonstrates an impressive specific capacitance of 1309 C g−1 at 2 A g−1 current density in a three‐electrode system. Furthermore, the asymmetric supercapattery, featuring NiSe2/Nb2CTx 1:2 (positive electrode) and bio‐derived activated carbon (AC) (negative electrode) achieves a gravimetric capacitance of 205 C/g at 0.5 A g−1 current density, a power density of 10,800 W kg−1 at the energy density of 64 Wh kg−1, with 90% retention after 12 000 cycles. As a catalyst for water oxidation, the NiSe2/Nb2CTx 1:2 exhibits the lowest over potential of 359 mV at the current density 10 mA cm−2 and Tafel slope of 105 mV dec−1. This investigation introduces an innovative approach for developing high‐performance supercapattery electrode materials and electrocatalysts using MXene.

Deep reinforcement learning for PMSG wind turbine control via twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3)

AbstractThis article proposes the use of a deep reinforcement learning method—and precisely a variant of the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) method known as twin delayed DDPG, or TD3—for maximum power point tracking in wind energy conversion systems that use permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSGs). An overview of the TD3 algorithm is provided, together with a detailed description of its implementation and training for the considered application. Simulation results are provided, also including a comparison with a model‐based control method based on feedback linearization and linear‐quadratic regulation. The proposed TD3‐based controller achieves a satisfactory control performance and is more robust to PMSG parameter variations as compared to the presented model‐based method. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this article presents for the first time an approach for generating both speed and current control loops using DRL for wind energy conversion systems.

Atomically precise metal nanoclusters for energy conversion

AbstractAtomically precise metal nanoclusters (NCs) have emerged as a new frontier in electrocatalysis, enabling the study of electrocatalytic reactions on well‐defined stable surfaces and rational electrocatalyst design based on atomic‐level tailoring. In this review, we focus on the recent applications of these NCs to energy conversion reactions, including those involved in water splitting (hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions), fuel cell operation (oxygen reduction and hydrogen oxidation reactions), and electrochemical CO2 reduction. Emblematic examples are used to highlight the roles of different NC parts, for example, core metal and surrounding ligands, and the significance of the electrode substrate. Finally, we discuss the perspectives of the future development and implementation of NC‐based energy conversion systems.