The best tilt angle to improve PV module performance in world’s worst soiling accumulation zone
Scientists have measured the performance of PV modules under strong soiling conditions in Saudi Arabia and have identified the most suitable tilt angles for improving power generation. They have also found that a key role is played by rain intensity, dust, sandstorms, and cloud cover.
Enecoat claims 30.4% efficiency for four-terminal perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell
The Japanese manufacturer said its tandem cell utilizes a top perovskite solar cell with an efficiency of 22.4% and 81% infrared transmittance.
Italian scientists show technical feasibility of solid oxide fuel cells in PV-driven residential buildings
The researchers conducted a case study on a solid oxide fuel cell system deployed in a nearly zero-energy single-floor villa with a size of 80 m2 located in southern Italy. They found that, in particular conditions of photovoltaic production, the system is not only able to meet the home electric loads, but also to inject surplus energy into the network.
Recycled silicon powder from end-of-life solar panels can be reused in anti-corrosion coating
Researchers in India have demonstrated a wet chemical process to recover silicon with high purity from end-of-life solar panels, which they used to make functionalized silica nanoparticles. Tests of the processed nanoparticles in anti-corrosion coatings showed a corrosion protection efficiency of 99.5 %, which they said was 200 times lower corrosion rate compared to uncoated silica nanoparticles.
Chinese PV Industry Brief: Longi issues net loss warning for 2024
Longi has issued a profit warning for 2024, forecasting a net loss of up to $1.11 billion – a sharp decline from last year’s profit of $1.42 billion.
MENA region hits 24 GW (AC) of total solar capacity
The Middle East Solar Industry Association’s (MESIA) latest report says solar capacity in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region grew by 25% in 2024, with local manufacturing and energy storage also accelerating.
Construction begins on 12 MW Swiss alpine PV project
Work has begun on the Swiss Madrisa Solar project, a 12 MW alpine PV installation located at an elevation of 2,000 m near a ski resort of the village of Klosters. It is part of the Solar Express initiative designed to boost domestic winter energy production.
TOPCon IP battle intensifies with Qcells launching infringement notices
Qcells has launched an intellectual property (IP) dispute over alleged unauthorized use of its patented laser-enhanced contact opening (LECO) tech in tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) solar cells. The case underscores rising tensions in the PV industry over TOPCon patents.
A copper-bottomed answer to solar’s silver dependence
The solar industry has dragged its heels on the issue of silver-dependence for cell metallization, but China’s Jiangsu Xianghuan Technology (JXTC) is moving into commercial production with a copper plating process that overcomes many of the challenges that have limited interest from cell manufacturers.
Global solar module prices mixed on varying demand expectations
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, OPIS, a Dow Jones company, provides a quick look at the main price trends in the global PV industry.
