Sharp launches 540 W half-cut PV module with 20.9% efficiency
The IEC/EN61215 and IEC/EN61730-certified panel features 144 half-cells based on M10 wafers and a 10-busbar design. Its operating temperature coefficient is -0.341% per degree Celsius and its power tolerance reaches up to 5%.
Large area perovskite solar cell with copper metal contact
An Indian research group has built a perovskite cell that has a metal contact based on copper, instead of expensive gold. The device showed almost the same efficiency as a cell developed with gold metallization but its stability was much lower. In order to overcome this issue, the scientists suggest using a metal contact made of a thin layer of gold and a thicker, overlying copper layer.
Growing interest for utility scale solar in Czechia
Several utility scale solar projects are being developed in Czechia, with investors hoping to secure subsidies from a recently launched rebate scheme that covers up to 50% of the costs. Securing a PPA to sell power, however, may be more difficult, as the current market conditions do not offer many opportunities for long-term deals.
Adani, Reliance to set up solar gigafabs in India
Adani, Reliance New Energy, Jindal India Solar and Shirdi Sai Electricals have been put on a shortlist for India’s production-linked incentive scheme for high-efficiency PV module manufacturing. The list includes 14 other companies vying for the incentives.
Australian research shows tandem cells should follow PERC for multi-TW production
A new paper from the University of New South Wales underscores the urgent global need for tens of terawatts of PV to replace fossil fuels by 2050. The researchers say it’s time to focus on the most sustainable technologies, before reserves of silver, indium and bismuth dry up.
Interface engineering for a stable, 23.4% efficient perovskite solar cell
Scientists led by Switzerland’s École Polytechnique Fedérale de Lausanne (EPFL) demonstrated a simple approach to designing the interface between two layers in a perovskite solar cell, which was shown to improve both the performance and stability of the device. Solar cells fabricated by the group achieved 23.4% conversion efficiency, and were operated for close to 6,000 hours before degrading beyond 80% of this initial value.
Chinese PV Industry Brief: Rising solar glass prices and a major polysilicon supply deal
Shuangliang Eco-Energy has agreed to buy a total of 134,950 MT of polysilicon from two different manufacturers. Furthermore, the Chint group said it wants to deploy another 3 GW of rooftop solar and PV InfoLinks reported on rising glass prices.
Dutch transmission system operator releases online map showing available grid capacity
The interactive map gives solar and wind project developers, as well as regional grid operators direct insight into where and how much capacity is available at Tennet’s high-voltage stations.
Canal in Spain may host 160 MW solar plant
The government of Spain’s Navarra region has approved a 160 MW solar project planned by the local renewable energy association Anpier. The plant is to be deployed on the Canal of Navarra, which is one of the country’s largest artificial irrigation canals.
Circular economy could support India’s push for clean energy, self-reliance
The recovery of valuable raw materials from end-of-life solar panels and batteries presents a great opportunity for India to secure future supplies as the nation chases its ambitious renewable energy targets.
