Kyocera jumps aboard imec's solar cell R&D program
The Belgian nanoelectronics research center’s industrial affiliation program to advance next-gen solar cells has attracted the Japanese electronics giant.
ZSW sets 21.7% thin film efficiency record
Scientists at Stuttgart’s Centre for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research have regained the gong for CIGS efficiency, improving upon the previous record of 21%.
ISC Konstanz, MegaCell sign transfer deal for N-Type BiSoN cell technology
The agreement will help Franco Traverso’s recently launched Italian cell company to reach an annual capacity of 80 MW for bifacial BiSoN solar cells with 30% more energy yield. The German R&D institute’s partnership with Centrotherm will further enhance efficiency and reduce manufacturing cost of BiSoN technology.
Brighter skies leading to 5% PV yield increases
New research from Germanys Fraunhofer ISE has shown that brighter skies are leading to PV system output exceeding forecasts by 5%. Fraunhofer has adjusted its forecast models accordingly.
Printable solar cells close to commercialization
Australian research organization CSIRO says its solar cells, printable onto plastic, are nearing market. CSIRO says domestic solar dye cell manufacturer Dyesol is interested in commercializing the technology.
Natcore research may cut cell production costs by using copper
By switching from silver to copper, the cost of producing a solar cell would fall by a fraction of a cent. Yet in building a 100 MW facility, developers could save more than $100,000.
Kyocera modules receive high ranking on GTM scorecard
The Japanese electronics company revealed as only solar firm to rank as performance leader in all six testing categories by PV Evolution Labs.
Michigan State University develops transparent solar cell
Cell developed with light harvesting transparent solar concentrators delivers just 1% efficiency, researchers aiming for 5% in near future.
Germany slates $210 million for sustainable power grid research
Some 200 research institutes and companies are taking part in the initiative, part of the country’s ambitious goal of an 80% renewable energy share by 2050.
Factory delays spurring higher cell efficiencies, finds NPD Solarbuzz
Solar PV manufacturers are stepping up R&D efforts to achieve greater efficiencies, with industry standard modules set to reach 275 W within a year, research finds.
