How to reduce ionic losses in tin-based perovskite solar cells
Researchers in Germany have developed a DMSO-free fabrication process for tin-based perovskite solar cells that dramatically reduces ion density – over tenfold lower than in lead-based devices – leading to improved stability.
U.S. research finds PV can support bird, bat activities
A pair of research studies led by the Argonne National Laboratory have demonstrated how “ecovoltaic” installations in the midwestern United States are home to more bird and bat activities than nearby fields used for agriculture.
The thermomechanical impact of plated copper contacts on heterojunction solar cells
UNSW researchers have found that annealing copper-plated contacts in heterojunction solar cells creates only localized stress. Their analysis also showed that, at typical annealing temperatures around 200 C, the probability of silicon fracture is very low.
Industry addresses UV degradation, hail risk in European solar modules
Industry leaders at pv magazine Week Europe 2025 said manufacturers are implementing measures to limit ultraviolet-induced degradation in tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) solar modules and strengthen resilience to hail damage to protect performance and reduce financial risk.
Oscal launches 1,024 Wh portable storage system
The Chinese company said its Power Max 1800 SE has a rated power of 1.8 kW and a surge power of 2.4 kW. It weighs 15.5 kg and measures 39 cm x 23 cm x 25.4 cm.
Calefa Oy releases waste heat-powered steam heat pump
The Finnish company said its novel AmbiSteam system can produce process steam above 5 bar. It is based on the company’s SteamLevel heat pump technology.
Solar powers the warfighter
2026 Defense authorizations highlight the need for U.S.-made photovoltaics in satellites to compete with foreign adversaries, writes Rob Gardner, vice president, congressional and regulatory affairs, for the SEMA Coalition.
Toshiba ESS tests hybrid wind-solar project with storage in Saudi Arabia
Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corp. (Toshiba ESS) has started testing batteries and energy management solutions to stabilize electricity in remote Saudi Arabia through a hybrid wind-solar pilot project. The project will run until May 2028 to evaluate power- and energy-oriented batteries and optimize battery use.
France’s Solarpro launches steel deck mounting system for rooftop PV
Solarpro has developed a steel deck mounting structure with a drilling-free fixing system for rooftop solar panels.
Perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell with steric complementary design achieves 32.3% efficiency
Researchers in China developed a monolithic perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell using a steric-complementary interface design, achieving a certified efficiency of 32.12% and enhanced long-term stability. This strategy optimizes molecular fit in the perovskite lattice, improving both charge transport and device longevity.
