Exploring the role of hybrid energy hubs: introducing IEA PVPS Task 20
The International Energy Agency Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme (IEA PVPS) is starting a new Task 20: Energy Hubs for Green Hydrogen. This joint effort with the IEA Wind and Hydrogen Technology Collaboration Programmes (TCPs) seeks to advance the integration of wind, solar, and hydrogen technologies into hybrid energy systems that produce green hydrogen efficiently and sustainably. Running from 2025 to 2028, Task 20 will address the practical, technical, environmental, and societal challenges associated with hybrid energy hubs, providing actionable insights for their implementation on a global scale.
German startup offers refurbished solar modules in balcony PV systems
Germany’s Panelretter is now offering German customers plug-in solar devices that use refurbished second-life solar modules. There are three different models with output ranging from 400 W to 810 W. The prices for the complete sets start at €220 ($232).
String inverters best for partially shaded PV systems, says IEA-PVPS
The International Energy Agency (IEA) Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme (PVPS) has released a technical report exploring innovations and challenges in optimizing the performance of partially shaded PV systems.
PV-powered system to desalinate water, produce H2 for desert agriculture
Scientists have proposed a standalone system that uses freeze desalination and ice for air conditioning. It requires 10,785 square meters of c-Si bifacial PV panels and can operate throughout the day. Energetic efficiency is calculated as 17.8% during the day and 56% at night.
Researchers claim record-breaking 25.7% efficency for perovskite-organic tandem solar cell
Conceived by a research team from Germany’s University of Potsdam and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the tandem cell is based on a wide-bandgap perovskite bottom cell and a narrow-bandgap organic top device. The researchers used a compound known as cyclohexane 1,4-diammonium diiodide for suface passivation.
Scientists reveal factors for morphology control in organic solar cells
An international research team has fabricated organic solar cells using non-toxic solvents. The researchers identified interactions between the acceptor material side chains and the solvent, along with interactions between donor and acceptor materials, as key factors for controlling morphology in organic solar cells.
Battery technology offers fast charging for industrial vehicles under 10 minutes
UK-based battery supplier Echion Technologies has partnered with Australia’s Switch Technologies to demonstrate its ultra-fast charge technology in a Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series off-road vehicle.
Solargain digital twin integrates condition monitoring, quality assurance
Above Surveying, a U.K.-based services and software company, announced adding large-scale PV condition monitoring to its Solargain digital twin tool as a result of its partnership with Kiwa PI Berlin and 2DegreesKelvin.
Ten reasons why small-scale, non-utility solar is important
Behind-the-meter solar for homes, businesses, and communities comes with numerous benefits, said a paper from Stanford engineering professor Mark Jacobson.
DAS Solar introduces flexible mounting system
DAS Solar has unveiled a new, flexible PV mounting system. The company claims the system, now installed over a fishery in China, has already withstood a particularly strong typhoon, demonstrating its reliability.
