Technology and R&D

pv magazine spoke with energy and environmental law expert Anatole Boute about the past and future role of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in regulating trade disputes related to clean energy technologies amid current geopolitical tensions. He noted that despite recent protectionist efforts to revive the solar manufacturing industry, the European Union still strives to remain compliant with WTO rules.

Mercedes-Benz unveiled its first car prototype with a silicon-free, 20%-efficient nanoparticle solar coating that powers the vehicle even when off and uses modules thinner than a human hair.

An international research team has developed a tracker-based rooftop PV system that can be installed on both new and existing stadiums. The proposed design reportedly allows for easier deployment and delivers higher power output compared to conventional stadium PV covers.

An international research team has found Cameroon exhibited a slow but obvious move towards equitable electrification between 2015 and 2024, with an increased focus on distributed renewable energy sources.

Researchers in Japan have adopted a new calcium-doping strategy to improve the stability and electrochemical properties of NFM, a cathode material used in sodium-ion batteries. The new technique enhances crystallinity and increases the interlayer spacing in NFM, resulting in higher performance compared to NFM treated with conventional processes.

Chinese researchers developed an electric heating model to support uniform material temperature in a novel four-ring, 80-rod industrial Siemens reactor.

Scientists in Morocco have developed a novel solar panel cleaning system designed to remove dust and bird droppings. Their prototype was built at a total cost of $386 and is ready to incorporate AI features in the future.

The latest report from the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme (PVPS) highlights that 2024 was another record year for solar installations but large overcapacities of solar cell, module and wafer manufacturing continued.

A research team assessing the social embeddedness of solar minigrids in rural Pakistan found the technology responds to energy poverty while fostering empowerment in communities, leading the team to conclude a minigrid can foster broader societal change while providing a technological solution.

Inverters must withstand the high levels of heat generated when operating, otherwise system performance and reliability could be at risk. Cody Schoener of Dow Performance Silicones argues using silicone-based materials for inverters can improve thermal management and fire protection, while offering thermal stability, environmental resistance, electrical isolation and support for operational efficiency.