“Smart” greenhouses can grow plants while generating electricity
A new type of greenhouse with special PV modules installed, which absorbs some light, while allowing some to pass through to allow photosynthesis has been tested by researchers at the university of California with very positive results.
Ingeteam turns to the skies for PV power plant optimization
Spanish inverter supplier Ingeteam is taking part in a research program deploying drones to inspect existing PV power plants, to spot the causes of underperformance. The SCARAB project is headed by the company and has been provided with almost €650,000 (AU$980,000) in funding from the Spanish government.
NREL hits new efficiency record for quantum dot cell
Scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have created a solar cell using colloidal quantum dots, which achieved 13.4% conversion efficiency – a new world record for this emerging technology.
Yale researchers use Fossilized Diatoms to make organic PV more cost-efficient
Fossilized Diatoms, an algae that has the ability to manipulate light, are being used to solve a design problem that has long plagued the proliferation of organic solar cells. The diatoms can be found in all waters and in the bark of trees. They possess a skeleton made of nanostructured silica or glass.
Berkeley scientists boost battery capacities
Scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have made progress with cathodes made from ‘disordered’ materials, a technology which could greatly increase the storage capacity of lithium batteries.
Interview: keys to durability, and why it counts
From cost-per-watt on day one to output over 25 – 30 years: The understanding of value in the PV sector has begun to shift. Dow Chemical’s Brian Habersberger spoke to pv magazine about the materials helping inform and drive the transition.
New transparent solar glass developed by scientists at Michigan State University
The new solar see through hardware was developed by engineers at Michigan State University, and is seen as a potential energy source which could collect to as much solar power as current traditional rooftop modules.
Microlink Devices signs deal with NREL to produce lightweight HJT cells
U.S. based semiconductor manufacturer Microlink Devices has signed an exclusive deal with the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to commercialize a type of lightweight heterojunction solar cell architecture, which could be utilized in powering satellites and aircraft.
Korean scientists increase stability for perovskite cell
A joint group of researchers from South Korea’s Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) and the Korean Institute of Energy Research has developed a method for increasing the stability of perovskite solar cells using low cost fluorine.
A*Star researchers develop technique for cheaper solar cell production
A*Star researchers, in a bid to find an alternative to silicon-based solar cells, are investigating a new material that is more cost-effective and easier to produce that could also lead to more efficient solar cells.
