Technology and R&D

A team of scientists at Georgia State University has discovered a process that occurs naturally in plants. Known as ‘inverted-region electron transfer’, better understanding of this process could contribute to the design of higher efficiency solar cells, says the University.

A collaborative project between the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM) and the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) has tested a range of multi junction cells in tandem configuration, and achieved efficiencies of up to 35.9%.

A team of researchers at the Netherlands’ AMOLF institute has modelled the performance of tandem perovskite/silicon solar cells under real-world climate conditions, and found that the tandem cells are little more efficient than the Si cell alone. The research shows, however, that if correctly optimized, this type of cell could perform at efficiency levels above 38%.

Researchers at the UK’s Exeter University have created solar cell-embedded glass bricks, which in addition to generating electricity let in natural light and provide thermal insulation.

U.S. based PV innovator 1366 Technologies, and Korean PV manufacturer Hanwha Q CELLS have announced a new performance record for cells produced using 1366’s Direct Wafer technique. The cells achieved 20.3% efficiency, which has been independently confirmed by Fraunhofer ISE.

A team of researchers at the University of Sheffield has developed a service to forecast energy generation levels from PV up to three days in advance, allowing grid operators to make decisions further in advance, lowering costs and increasing the efficiency of electricity systems.

Researchers from Spain based organization nanoGUNE have developed a solar cell which, through the use of magnetic electrodes, is able to serve as its own inverter.

Researchers at the Netherlands’ AMOLF Institute have developed a method for imprinting solar panels with silicon nanopatterns that scatter green light back towards the observer.

After the 20 MW PV project planned in the Central region of Ghana was threatened with a 29% feed in tariff reduction, UK based solar developer PSECC Solar Farms turned to Natcore, with the aim of bringing in higher efficiency technology that would make the project financially viable.

Zurich based startup Adaptricity, which grew out of leading university the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich) is preparing to launch a software system which can simulate and analyze regional electrical grids, potentially a valuable tool for investors and grid operators.