Semi-transparent photovoltaics cost-competitive only up to 50% transparency
Researchers from Spain found that semi-transparent PV systems are commercially viable only up to about 50% transparency, as higher transparency sharply reduces efficiency and increases system costs. Their analysis shows that declining power density, and not balance-of-system or financing factors, is the main driver of higher LCOE, even in high-irradiation regions.
Rising silver prices drive China’s Longi shift to copper-metallized solar cells
China’s Longi says it will begin mass production of base-metal PV modules in the second quarter of 2026 as rising silver prices intensify pressure to reduce metallization costs.
EPFL researchers enhance perovskite solar cell performance via rubidium
Researchers led by Michael Grätzel at the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne in Switzerland have recently led efforts to improve perovskite optoelectronic properties using small-radius rubidium ion chemistry to enable more stable and efficient perovskite solar cells.
ML System unveils solar facade panels, roof-integrated PV tiles
The Poland-based module manufacturer has developed Photonwall, a building integrated solution for ventilated façades. It also offers Photonroof, a ceramic PV roof tile solution. Both BIPV products are available in colors and finishes that match the aesthetics of modern and historic buildings.
New research sheds light on defect regions in perovskite solar films
A Chinese research group has demonstrated an electrical imaging technique using 3D tomographic conductive atomic force microscopy to investigate passivation strategies of perovskite films to improve stability and efficiency of perovskite solar cells.
Huawei, Sungrow lead Wood Mackenzie’s inverter market ranking
Wood Mackenzie’s first-half 2025 solar inverter ranking finds the top 10 leading inverter manufacturers have a 71% global market share.
China strengthens intellectual property protection in solar industry
Chinese authorities are planning to implement a series of policy measures to introduce stronger intellectual property protection to the country’s photovoltaic sector. Chinese enterprises are being encouraged to accelerate technological advancements and reserve basic patents for developing technologies.
Japanese airport terminal hosting chalcopyrite solar modules
In two separate projects Japan-based Kyuden Mirai Energy and Nissan Motor are demonstrating the use of flexible, glass-free chalcopyrite PV panels provided by PXP Corporation.
India’s Waaree Energies wins 1.5 GW module order, starts inverter output
India’s Waaree Energies has secured a 1.5 GW solar module supply contract and begun commercial production on new PV inverter manufacturing lines with a combined annual capacity of 3.05 GW.
JA Solar, Trina Solar tie for top spot in Wood Mackenzie ranking
Wood Mackenzie’s first-half 2025 solar module ranking places JA Solar and Trina Solar jointly at No. 1 and introduces a new “Grade A” benchmark aimed at procurement and project finance decisions.
