New model for grid-forming inverter operation
Scientists in the United States have developed a new model to allow utilities to use grid-forming inverters in order to better renewable energy intermittency. They described the inverter main circuit representation, the droop control, and the fault current limiting function.
New tool to increase social acceptance of solar parks
Thanks to a traceability tool, individuals, companies and local authorities who have signed an electricity supply contract with French energy provider Volterres can monitor in real time the source of their electricity supply, and in particular the share of electricity coming directly from renewable energy plants located nearby.
Project to deploy 160 MW solar array on Spanish canal moves forward
The regional administration of Navarra said it is now developing the first 9-km portion of the 198-km solar plant that is planned to be deployed on Spain’s largest artificial irrigation canal network.
Silver-alloyed CIGS solar cell with transparent indium back contacts, 12% efficiency
Scientists in Sweden have developed a wide-gap ACIGS solar cell with hydrogen-doped indium oxide (IOH) transparent back contacts and silver alloying to increase the absorber bandgap energy. The device achieved an efficiency of 12.0%, an open-circuit voltage of 835 mV, a short-circuit current of 22.1 mA cm2, and a fill factor of 65.2%.
Solar module with frameless front side, improved drainage function
Chinese panel maker DAH Solar has developed a rooftop PV module with a new design that is claimed to enable water to wash away dust without the need for manual cleaning operations. The panel is offered in five versions with power output ranging from 450 W to 470 W and efficiency spanning from 20.85% and 21.78%.
Solar arm for agrivoltaic applications
A Slovakian startup has developed a photovoltaic-integrated arm that provides off-grid power for weeding and other small agricultural applications. In its largest configuration, the system is 18 meters long, has a capacity of 2.4 kW, and is able to cover a cultivated area of 994 m².
Tunable solar cells with customized design capabilities
German scientists have reviewed all solar cell technologies with tuning capabilities and have identified all of their possible applications.
Retractable 1.2 kW solar awning for RVs
The Xponent Power solar awning, a recent winner of the German Innovation Award, is a wind-resilient electricity producer for off-grid adventures.
Solar beehive in South Korea
Hanwha Group has marked World Bee Day by unveiling the country’s first solar beehive. The PV modules on the beehive generate electricity to automatically monitor and control internal conditions.
Semitransparent dye-sensitized solar module for BIPV applications
Scientists in Italy have developed a module with an area of 0.2 sm and an efficiency of 2.7% in outdoor conditions, with a tilt angle of 60 C. They designed it by considering the trade-off between low losses and device sturdiness.
