Glass-free, colored PV modules for building rooftop retrofits, façades
Researchers from Swiss and Austrian institutions have demonstrated a novel design for a glass-free, structurally robust silicon PV module. With a weight below 6 kg/m2, the targeted application is older buildings with weak roof structure.
Ahaan Solar to start 600 MW TOPCon module factory by mid-2025
Ahaan Solar, part of Airox Nigen Equipments, plans to start production from the first 600 MW phase of its 2 GW solar module factory in Haryana, India, by mid-2025. The facility will use tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) technology to produce high-efficiency modules for domestic and export markets.
Optimal parameters for perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell manufacturing
Researchers in the Middle East claim to have identified the optimal parameters for the commercial production of perovskite-silicon tandem solar modules across several locations. Their analysis showed that manufacturing costs may currently be as low as $0.387/W, with the prospect of reaching $0.25/W in seven years.
Understanding P50, P90 and P99 in solar energy
A review of using statistical probability to understand solar production outcomes.
TNO, Solarge unveil lightweight perovskite solar module prototype
TNO and Solarge have developed a lightweight perovskite solar module prototype measuring 32 cm x 34 cm by combining roll-to-roll processing and low-weight panel materials. The Netherlands-based partners aim to scale the technology for broader commercial applications.
Improving solar cell performance with melanin, porous silicon powder
Researchers in Mexico have enhanced optoelectronic and solar cell performance by combining melanin with porous silicon powder. The compound improved photocurrent generation by boosting the luminescence of the silicon material.
China polysilicon prices fall 11.76% since early April peak
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, OPIS, a Dow Jones company, reports thatglobal polysilicon negotiations remain challenging, as buyers and sellers continue to struggle to reach agreements on pricing amid a persistent supply-demand imbalance. Furthermore, it reveals that China’s polysilicon futures market could imply a further 13% drop for Nov 2025 delivery contracts.
Taiwan’s United Renewable Energy to lay off more than 100 employees
Taiwan’s United Renewable Energy (URE) says it plans to lay off more than 100 employees as it retires passivated emitter and rear contact (PERC) solar cell production lines in Taiwan to focus on its tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) module series.
Ascent Solar unveils production scale 15.7% CIGS modules for space
US-based Ascent Solar Technologies says its latest 30cm2 Titan solar module has a power density of 1,960 W/kg and is designed for space applications.
RENA Technologies warns of patent infringement in US, Indian markets
RENA Technologies GmbH says it plans to take legal action against unauthorized use of its water cap patent in the United States and India, amid evidence of infringement by unspecified Chinese suppliers manufacturing equipment for solar cell production.
