Using existing fences as near-zero-cost racking solution for PV deployment
American researchers are proposing to use steel zip ties to attach solar modules to fences in animal farms as a low-cost racking solution for agrivoltaic applications. They found the proposed approach is technically and economically viable, provided careful wind load tests are conducted on the fences.
China polysilicon prices hold steady amid rebound talk
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.
US government offers $45 million for pilot production of PV components
Funding from the US government’s “Investing in America” agenda is intended to support silicon component manufacturing and the development of dual-use PV technologies.
Bisol launches new solar panels for agrivoltaics, carports
Slovenian solar manufacturer Bisol is offering new solar panels with outputs of 320 W and 410 W. Front efficiencies range from 16.4% to 17.3% and the temperature coefficient is -0.34% per degree Celsius.
Prasham Greens unveils water-draining clamps for solar panels
India’s Prasham Greens has designed water-draining clamps to get rid of accumulated water from the edges of solar panels after rain and water-based cleaning.
New research claims 85 solar plants in Czechia reached end of lifetime after only 12 years
Data monitoring from 85 PV power plants built in Czechia between 2009 and 2010 show delamination plays a crucial role in significantly reducing their expected lifetime. The scientists behind the research explained that the main cause for the reduced lifetime was due not only to a poor estimation of the technical possibilities of the PV panels at the time of planning and installation, but also to a profit-led approach aimed at lowering the costs of the projects.
First Solar secures 1 GW module order
Capital Power will purchase thin-film solar modules from First Solar for projects across North America, with deliveries to start in 2026.
Indian startup releases new hybrid wind-solar street light system
India’s WindStream Energy Technologies has developed a hybrid wind-solar street light system for hilly, coastal, and rural areas.
GCL-Si set to start production at 20 GW of solar cell factory in China
GLS-Si has invested CNY 8 billion ($1.1 billion) in a new cell factory in Wuhu, China. It said manufacturing activities will start in August.
New study finds growing inequality in metal footprints of renewable power value chains
A US-Chinese research team has investigated the flow of iron, copper, aluminum, and other precious metals from source to end-use destination in the renewable energy infrastructure value chain. It found significant imbalances that can be attributed to the continuous outsourcing of metal demand for the renewable power sector to developing economies.
