Fraunhofer ISE: Minimal deviation in module quality measurements globally
The Fraunhofer ISE CalLab PV Modules has compared the results of their PV modules measurements with three other top international measurement labs for PV modules. The round robin tests show that all measurements have a minimal deviation of ±1% from the mean, and thereby fall well within the measurement precision of 1.8%.
New solar cell structure sets record
A new world record efficiency for solar sunlight conversion has been set by a cell structure with four solar sub-cells. The solar cell has managed to hit a new record efficiency of 44.7% and is the brainchild of researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, Soitec, CEA-Leti and the Helmholtz Center Berlin.
Sol Voltaics receives $9.4 million funding for nanotech development
The Sweden-based startup convinces Norwegian investors Umoe and others to invest close to $10 million to help the company develop the nanotechnology that can create 25% more efficient solar cells.
ReneSola closes $70 million share offering in preparation for polysilicon optimization
Chinese PV manufacturer ReneSola successfully closes $70 million securities offering on the NYSE, announcing that proceeds received are to be used for polysilicon production optimization.
Scottish solar pyramid nominated for Solar Power Portal Award
Innovative solar system installed on a pyramid-shaped office building by the U.K.’s Sustainable Renewable Technologies (SRT) earns nomination for “Most Innovative System Design” in the Solar Power Portal Award.
Scatec Solar connects South Africa's first renewable independent power project to the grid
European PV specialists Scatec Solar connect their 75 MW solar plant to South Africa’s grid three months ahead of schedule, making it the first renewable energy independent power producer procurement program (REIPPPP) in the country.
North Carolina researchers improve stacked solar cell connections
The breakthrough will allow solar cell manufacturers to create stacked solar cells that can handle high-intensity solar energies without losing voltage at the connecting junctions, potentially improving conversion efficiency.
Micro generation projects driving Portugal’s new solar PV installations
Portugal added 16.8 MW of solar PV in May and June, but latest figures show that micro generation is still the country’s dominant sector.
First Solar and China Sunergy urge Indian government to drop dumping investigation
U.S. and Chinese manufacturers claim that Indias government is acting beyond the scope of its powers in a dumping probe they describe as “flawed.”
SolarWorld to bring 500 kW of carport solar power to four Californian parks
SolarWorld Americas has begun work on constructing solar carports totaling more than 500 kW of power across four public parks in California, US.
