What standards for agrivoltaics?
The technology which combines solar PV panels and agriculture is gaining ground. IEC Standards for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems already exist, but more might be required, dealing with some of the more specific issues relating to agriculture.
Chinese researchers build 21.60%-efficient perovskite solar modules via blade coating
A research team led by the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics in China have used tetramethylammonium chloride in the fabrication of perovskite solar cells and modules, demonstrating that it improved both stability and efficiency results. The group’s 10 cm × 8 cm modules achieved certified 21.60% power conversion efficiency. The novel interfacial modification enabled the use of scalable blade coating to deposit both transport layers and the perovskite layer.
Collision of art, culture and solar sets Guinness World Record
A residential building’s vibrant, art-drenched solar façade brought renewable energy to new heights, setting a Guinness Book of World Record for the largest solar panel mural.
Fraunhofer ISE estimates Germany’s agrivoltaic potential at 500 GW
Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) says Germany could deploy up to 500 GW of agrivoltaic capacity, based on a nationwide assessment of all agricultural land types and site suitability criteria.
The best tilt angle for canal-mounted PV systems
Researchers in Türkiye have conducted an experimental study on the ideal tilt angles for PV systems deployed on canals. Their analysis showed that an 8◦ tilt angle consistently demonstrates greater performance.
Solarix Solar launches new terracotta solar panel
The Netherlands-based solar façade panel and mounting system provider has added a new terracotta rooftop module to its product range. It also announced it is expanding it sales network and boosting its manufacturing capacity after raising €5.5 million in financing.
Optimizing photovoltaic systems in harsher climates
A recent report from the International Energy Agency (IEA) Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme (PVPS) covers guidance on improving the performance of PV systems deployed in climates such as deserts, tropical regions and snowy areas.
NREL develops translucent solar panels for bigger, better crops
Researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory grew tomatoes under translucent solar panels, which could play a promising role in agrivoltaics.
New vertical agrivoltaic system from Australia
Australian company Solspan has unveiled a 6.4 kW vertical solar wall system for applications in agrivoltaic projects. It measures 4 m x 4 m and can be interconnected with other units to create MW-sized systems.
‘Grid-forming technology is no longer experimental – it’s here and working’
In grids increasingly dominated by renewables, grid-forming technology is emerging as critical tool for maintaining stability and ensuring reliable power system operation. In this interview with ESS News, Rui Sun, Sungrow’s Deputy General Manager-Grid Technology Center, explains how grid-forming works, why it matters, and where the technology is already proving its value. He elaborates on technical challenges, regulatory gaps, and why grid-forming could soon become the new industry standard.
