Rooftop solar window based on semi-transparent perovskite solar cells
A prototype of an energy-harvesting, solar-powered smart window device has been developed by scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory. The window was created by integrating a semi-transparent perovskite solar cell and a multi-layer nanophotonic coating.
Water-free module cleaner for residential PV systems
A newly developed autonomous robotic cleaning solution for modules uses artificial intelligence to clean daily or on demand, without substantial human input.
Chinese PV Industry Brief: 10 GW module-inverter tender and 300 MW in Liaoning
JA Solar began work on a 300 MW solar plant in Liaoning province last week, while state-run Huaneng launched a fiscal 2020 tender for 5 GW of inverters and another 5 GW of PV modules.
Solar causes highest power peaks under mixed-cloud conditions
Dutch researchers have shown that power peaks caused by solar generation may be stronger under partial cloudiness than clear skies. According to their findings, mixed-cloud conditions can enhance PV power production due to light reflected off clouds, as well as their intermittent shadows on arrays, which reduce module temperatures.
Ikea extends PV offer to France
The furniture brand has begun offering solar panels and systems online throughout the country. French solar company Voltalia will be its strategic partner for the sale of its Solstrale modules.
Saudi Arabia outlines new provisions for rooftop PV
The regulations will force power distributors to give more help to homeowners and businesses willing to go solar. The new framework will apply to PV systems ranging in size from 1 kW-2 MW and to all energy consumers.
Midsummer unveils 500 W rooftop panel
The Swedish PV equipment supplier has launched Midsummer Magnum, a solar module for large rooftops. The manufacturer says the panel offers 14.54% efficiency and an output of 128.3 W per square meter. The company also unveiled a manufacturing process it claims can increase module output 10%.
Efficient rooftop solar+storage without MPPT
A German research group is trying to determine whether the combination of solar and storage with direct coupling and without the aid of maximum power point tracking (MPPT) electronics is feasible. According to its findings, this particular configuration might be efficient, but it will likely require special panels and batteries.
France expands limits of ‘energy communities’
The French energy regulator has expanded the maximum permitted distance between members of an energy community from 2 km to 20 km.
Kenya’s largest dairy producer wants to buy solar
New Kenya Cooperative Creameries has finalized the preliminary phase of a tender to buy electricity from a solar facility that will be built at its new KCC Sotik Factory. The installation is expected to cover around 40% of the site’s power needs.
