Imec testing demonstrates long-term reliability of copper printed PV cells
The Belgian nanoelectronics research body has published the results of its work alongside BE Semiconductor Industries on utilizing nickel/copper/silver plated solar cell modules in industrial processes, and found that copper-plated cells passed stringent tests with flying colors.
Solar on course to become the world’s cheapest source of energy within the next 10 years
The dramatically falling costs of solar energy from the supply chain to the final product could see the average global price of solar power become cheaper than coal within the next 10 years, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance, which is a position echoed by other experts.
Array Technologies to roll out tracker services unit
Albuquerque-based Array plans to roll out a new services division to accompany its growing tracker business.
The pv magazine weekly news digest
As the global solar market nears the end of its tenth consecutive year of growth, the EU-China trade spat looks set to continue, Indian ambitions soar once more, and mono-efficiency reaches new heights.
Interview: Bringing solar power to West Africa with Off Grid Electric
CEO of Off Grid Electric Xavier Helgesen discusses the company’s goal of bringing solar power systems to three million West Africans and explains how off-grid solar is gaining wider acceptance as a “real” power source that can transform local economies.
1366, Hanwha Q Cells achieve 19.6% multicrystalline cell efficiency
Using 1366’s groundbreaking kerfless silicon wafers and Hanwha’s proprietary PERC cell process, the cells’ remarkable performance was verified by an independent testing firm.
Trina Solar sets new 22.61% mono PERC efficiency record
The Chinese Tier 1 solar developer announces a new conversion efficiency for its mono-crystalline silicon PERC cell that surpasses its previous world record by a full half-percentage point.
Panasonic to supply PV modules to Tesla from Japan, Malaysia
The collaboration between the two companies is moving beyond Panasonic running the Tesla/SolarCity gigafactory, and will enable Panasonic to re-open a factory in Japan.
Bill Gates’ energy innovation fund commits to $1 billion in investment
The Breakthrough Energy Coalition is backing research on low- and zero-carbon technologies; however, their guidelines show a lack of understanding of solar technology and market development.
Meyer Burger attracts further investment
The signs continue to be positive for Meyer Burger’s capital increase, as the Swiss solar equipment manufacturer has announced a fourth separate investor in just a couple of weeks, this time with an investment of CHF 10.8 million (USD 10.7 million).
