Inverted blade-coated perovskite cell with 23.2% efficiency
A US research team has improved the efficiency of a blade-coated perovskite cell with a p-i-n structure by reducing iodine-induced charge traps in the films. They used the cells to fabricate a mini module with an efficiency of 18.2%.
New power electronic device to manage surplus solar power
The device was developed by an international consortium through the EU-funded project Renewable penetration levered by Efficient Low Voltage Distribution grids (RESOLVD). The power electronic technology is claimed to be able to combine different storage technologies in a single electronic-based board interface.
Avancis claims 19.64% efficiency for CIGS module
The German manufacturer said the result was confirmed by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory. The achieved efficiency is claimed to be a world record for a CIGS panel with an integrated series connection of 30×30 cm.
Silver accounts for 10% of PV module costs
The share of silver in the total cost of PV modules has increased by around 5% in recent months, according to US analyst Matthew Watson. He told pv magazine that silver prices are set to rise, adding that the metal will eventually account for an even larger percentage of overall module costs.
LG Energy recalling battery systems in Australia due to fire risks
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has confirmed a recall notice for some of LG Energy Solution’s battery energy storage systems due to potential fire-related risks.
Floating PV plant at California water treatment facility
A 4.8 MW floating PV installation in California has surpassed an array in the metro New York area to become one of the largest floating solar projects in the United States.
Slot die coating for 20.83% efficient perovskite thin-film solar cell
Scientists in Germany demonstrated a slot die coating process for large-scale production of perovskite thin-film solar cells that achieved a maximum efficiency of 20.83%. Using an additive, and experimenting to find the optimal concentration, the group demonstrated improved control over the crystallization process – crucial for developing stable, repeatable processing.
Swiss PV market grew 30% in 2020
According to Switzerland-based trade body Swissolar, the country saw the deployment of over 430 MW of new solar PV systems last year.
New parameters to improve prediction models for snow cover
Canadian scientists have developed a way to improve the short-term models used to forecast the impact of snow on PV arrays. The parameters include the warming effect of irradiance on the backs of panels, thermal capacity, and irradiance through snow.
Spanish company plans 1.17 GW hybrid solar-wind complex in Chile
Ibereólica has submitted the project, set to be located in the Antofagasta region, to Chile’s environmental authorities for approval.
