Atomic scale design could pave the way to more persistent solar cells, study says
Researchers from ICL claim to have discovered the cause for the rapid decrease in performance of perovskites. Adding iodide ions may help improve the stability of solar cells.
University of Twente publishes research on back reflector materials
Researchers at the Netherlands’ University of Twente have developed a material comprising thin, diamond-like photonic nanostructures which reflect a surprisingly wide range of colours of light, from all angles. This could make the material ideally suited for use as a back reflector for PV modules.
Masdar & MIT develop method for high efficiency semiconductor materials
Researchers from the Abu Dhabi based Masdar Institute and the renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology have jointly published the development of a fabrication method, which they say could make high efficiency semiconductor materials such as gallium-arsenide, indium phosphide and others more competitive with crystalline silicon.
Japanese scientists seek to develop solar cell able to absorb spectral components of longer wavelengths
The new technology is designed to capture the spectral components of longer wavelengths that are usually lost during transmission through the solar cell. The Japanese scientists are using up-conversion of below-gap photons to reduce power losses and increase the cell efficiency.
Imec claims 22.8% efficiency for bifacial n-type PERT solar cell
The Belgian research institute has developed a bifacial n-PERT solar cell with a conversion efficiency of 22.8%. Imec researchers claim this cell has the potential for a cost-of-ownership at module level of less than $0.30/W.
Korean University team develops 21.2% efficient perovskite solar cell
Researchers at the Ulsan Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) in South Korea have announced the development of a method to produce perovskite solar cells, which the University says could contribute to commercialization of the technology.
“Skinny Budget” nukes U.S. renewable energy research
President Trump’s Department of Energy hit list includes advanced energy research, loan guarantees and the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
Swansea University team develop new method to improve CZTS efficiency
A research team from the SPECIFIC Innovation and Knowledge Centre at Swansea University has developed a method that could lead to efficiency improvements in CZTS solar cells.
Dyesol receives AU$2.5 million grant for perovskite technology development
The Australian company will lead a research project focused on the commercialization of perovskite solar cell technology. The grant is being awarded under the Cooperative Research Centre Projects programme, administered by the Australian Department of Industry.
Cyprus to expand PV via net metering
The Mediterranean country is launching a second net metering program after a strong response to a similiar initiative last year. Despite broad support for renewable energy, the nation’s limited grid remains a problem for future expansion of renewables.
