Novel fins increase floating PV productivity, reduce LCOE by over 17%
A group of researchers in Egypt studied the use of partially submerged angle perforating fins (PSAPF) and solid fins (PSASF) to assess their ability to remove excess heat from floating photovoltaics under Mediterranean outdoor environments. The team found that the optimized PSAPF-FPV module achieved an LCOE of $0.068/kWh).
Five core challenges of the European solar photovoltaics research and innovation
In its latest monthly column for pv magazine, the European Technology and Innovation Platform for Photovoltaics (ETIP PV) presents its Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA), published in collaboration with the European Energy Research Alliance for PV (EERA-PV).
US developer secures $779 million for massive 800 MW solar project in Illinois
Swift Current Energy has secured $779 million in financing for an 800 MW solar project in Illinois – the second-largest PV installation in the nation.
Israel surpasses 2.2 GW of rooftop PV capacity
New figures from the Israeli authorities show that the country continues to deploy rooftop PV systems at a rapid pace. New rooftop installations hit 703 MW in 2022, up significantly from 537 MW in 2021 and 296 in 2020.
PV-equipped poultry farm destroyed by fire in Italy
A fire occurred broke out this week at a layer poultry farm in Volpago del Montello, Italy. The blaze, which killed more than 20,000 birds, reportedly may have originated from a PV system on the premises.
Winaico releases 525 W TOPCon solar panels
Taiwanese manufacturer Winaico has developed new 525 W TOPCon solar panels with a power conversion efficiency of 22.1% and a temperature coefficient of -0.30% per degree Celsius.
Floating PV for waterparks
Prefabricated floating solar PV provider Sunlit Sea, based in Norway, has provided its floaters for a 60 kW floating array installed at a waterpark in Germany.
Hail-prone areas may require solar modules with 4 mm-thick front glass
New research from India claims solar modules with 3.2 mm-thick front glass may not be strong enough to withstand storms producing big hailstones. The scientists found that a front glass of at least 4 mm should be used to avoid significant damage.
Australia to source 5 MW of flexible demand in smart buildings project
Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) will lead a “smart buildings” pilot project that has the potential to create a new ecosystem of technologies and solutions to support flexible demand for energy.
US community solar to exceed 6 GW in 2023
Following a suppressed 2022, US community solar is expected to have an upward trajectory, boosted by new state laws, the implementation of billions in grant money from the Inflation Reduction Act, and the smoothing of bumps in the supply chain.
