Solcast’s Solstice Forecast – Long term trends and forecast
In its last 2023 update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, presents a long-term analysis on historical average irradiance on Christmas day.
Thin-film solar is the future of agrivoltaics
In contrast with traditional panels, thin-film solar modules are much more adaptable to these agricultural situations, thanks to their flexible, lightweight design.
Fraunhofer ISE develops faster laser system for wafer processing
High throughput and high precision can help reduce solar cell production costs. A research group at Fraunhofer ISE has made progress with a laser system to process wafers for metallization. The system reportedly works 10 to 20 times faster.
ISC Konstanz claims 24% efficiency for tunnel back contact solar cell
ISC Konstanz researchers say their new n-type tunnel back contact (TBC) solar cell features polycrystalline silicon TOPCon contacts on both polarities. The results still need to be confirmed by an independent third party.
Singaporean startup unveils high intensity illumination tech that ‘rejuvenates’ solar panels
NTU Singapore researchers and startup EtaVolt presented a high intensity illumination device that can reportedly “patch up” the holes caused by light and heat in silicon solar cells. The new technique is claimed to reduce solar module degradation by up to 5 years and to be usable for around 90% of the solar modules available in the market.
Mibet launches floating PV array system for offshore applications
Mibet, a Chinese mounting system supplier, says its new G5 product is capable of withstanding wind gusts of more than 60 meters per second. It uses high density polyethylene floats and aluminum alloy support legs.
Dutch heating specialist unveils residential thermal battery
Newton Energy Solutions claims its new thermal storage system is ideal for houses equipped with solar panels and either heat pumps or gas boilers. The battery has an energy storage capacity of 20 kWh to 29 kWh.
Researchers discover new factor in perovskite solar cell stability
Georgia Tech researchers have discovered that isolated water or oxygen exposure does not degrade cells, as it is the interplay of the molecules that causes rapid degradation.
Longi announces 27.09% efficiency for heterojunction back contact solar cell
Longi has announced the achievement of 27.09% efficiency for its heterojunction back contact (HBC) solar cell, a result that has been confirmed by Germany’s Institute for Solar Energy Research (ISFH).
Downsizing concentrating photovoltaics
A Spanish research team aims to bring concentrating photovoltaics closer to commercial viability by miniaturizing its components. The scientists claim that smaller CPV cells may reduce production costs and enable better CPV module assembly.
