TU Delft research suggests back contact tech may push crystalline silicon PV over 28% threshold
Researchers in the Netherlands have investigated how carrier-selective contacts may help achieve stronger performance in back-contact (BC) crystalline silicon solar cells and have predicted efficiencies may reach up to 28.64%. Their analysis considered work function, energy barriers, and energy alignment across the stack of layers.
Sinovoltaics provides update to PV inverter manufacturer ranking
The Hong Kong-based consulting firm’s latest financial stability ranking based on Altman-Z scores sees Hoymiles, Eaton, and APSystems (Yuneng Technology) in the top three positions.
Solar module downward price trend has been reversed
High-efficiency solar modules are becoming scarce, prompting some retailers to stockpile in anticipation of rising prices, says Martin Schachinger, founder of pvXchange.com. He expects module prices to climb moderately but steadily until at least early next quarter.
Switzerland expands rules for rooftop solar, storage, energy communities
Switzerland is expanding rules for rooftop solar, energy storage, and energy communities to expand self-consumption and ease pressure on the grid. The new regulations, set to take effect in 2026, introduce updated tariffs, encourage battery storage, and allow local electricity trading.
Driver charged over fatal road incident involving solar panel
A Sydney man has been charged after a solar panel allegedly “dislodged” from a portable power station he was towing, flew through the windshield of another car and struck and killed its driver.
California bill introduced to mandate a VPP implementation plan
Virtual power plants, which could save state ratepayers an estimated $550 million per year, are connected aggregations of distributed energy resources like rooftop solar and energy storage.
‘The solar industry can offer unique opportunities for women to take on leadership, technical roles’
This week, Women in Solar Europe (WiSEu) gives voice to Letizia Coradeschi, Investments at Switzerland’s SUSI Partners AG. She says that normalizing parental leave and flexible work schedules that support work-life balance would further help retain female talent past junior and mid-level positions. “Despite the hurdles, my personal experience led me to believe that, coupled with persistence and resilience, this is a space where women can thrive and lead,” she states.
Airports Company South Africa issues tender for three PV plants totaling 9.5 MW
The tender covers the design, supply, installation, commissioning and maintenance of three proposed projects to be based at Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport, and Cape Town International Airport. Closing dates for submission is March 17.
California off to a strong clean electricity start with solar up 33.8%
Forty-eight days into 2025, CAISO gas use for electricity is down almost 28%, while battery use is up 78%, and solar has already met 100% of demand in the midst of winter.
Persistent cloud drops British Isles solar output in early February
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, reports that cloud-bearing weather systems dominated the British Isles, significantly reducing irradiance across the UK and Ireland between 9 and 18 February 2025, when solar generation reached in the region its lowest levels relative to capacity in at least a decade.
