Inverted perovskite solar cell based on stabilized C60 achieves 25.6% efficiency
An international team has utilized an n-type polymeric additive to stabilize C60 molecules for use in inverted perovskite PV cells. Thanks to this approach, the researchers built a solar cell with the highest efficiency value ever recorded for perovskite devices based on solution processed C60 electron transport layers.
New rivet and riveting tool to install solar panels on trackers
Spanish company Fator has launched a new rivet and riveting tool to install solar panels on trackers. It claims that they have anti-corrosion properties and offer faster installation than conventional systems.
Germany allocates 2.15 GW in latest PV tender, final average price for first time under €0.05/kWh since 2019
Germany’s latest auction for utility-scale solar concluded with prices ranging from €0.0388 ($0.0400)/kWh to €0.0495/kWh. The procurement exercise was significantly oversubscribed.
France reduces VAT to 5.5% for solar up to 9 kW
The French Senate has approved France’s 2025 Budget Law, cutting the value-added tax (VAT) to 5.5% for PV systems up to 9 kW from October 2025. Industry professionals say the delay might prompt homeowners to postpone installations to secure the lower rate.
Viessmann unveils ductless air-to-air heat pumps for residential, light commercial applications
The manufacturer claims the new products are particularly suitable for older homes, renovations in extreme climates. All models are said to provide “reliable” cooling and heating at temperatures spanning from -30 C to 50 C.
The Hydrogen Stream: MENA H2 projects surge in 2024
Dii Desert Energy says hydrogen projects in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) surged to 117 installations in 2024, with 90% classified as green, while Plug Power has introduced the first-ever spot pricing program for liquid green hydrogen.
Flanders adds over 646 MW of solar in 2024
Belgium’s Flanders region installed at least 646 MW of solar in 2024, bringing total installed capacity to nearly 7 GW. The region marked its 1 millionth solar panel installation this month, driven by industrial rooftop projects.
Research shows floating PV can reduce lake water temperature by 1.2 C
A before-after-control-impact study conducted at six French lakes for three years has revealed that PV coverage decreases water temperature by 1.2 C on average. The reduction in water temperature also occurred in areas of the lakes that were not covered with modules.
First four-hour battery storage in the Netherlands goes live
Rotterdam-based S4 Energy is now operating 10 MW / 40 MWh Tesla Megapack battery energy storage system (BESS) in the Netherlands.
Germany’s Tesvolt begins energy trading from pooled commercial batteries
Tesvolt Energy will collaborate with algorithm traders Enspired, Entrix, and The Mobility House to trade pooled 100 kWh-plus battery units for energy optimization.
