German power provider tests vertical agrivoltaics
Lechwerke is testing two pilot systems close to existing solar parks. It also aims to build its first large-scale project.
Trina launches tracking system for high-power modules
The tracker has a length of 72 meters, which the company says allows for 120 modules per tracker. The new product was conceived as a multi-drive, dual-slewing system that is claimed to have improved overall stability compared to other products and to show a reduced aeroelastic effect.
Juwi builds on Australian off-grid portfolio with 13 MW solar project
The Australian unit of Germay’s Juwi has added another off-grid solar PV project to its burgeoning portfolio. It said it will construct a 13 MW solar farm at the site of the Gruyere gold mine in Western Australia.
Geospatial approach to evaluation of potential solar sites
A U.S. research group has used high-resolution data to drill down to individual parcels of land, in order to figure out how much space is available for solar at optimal locations and preferred sites.
I’ve got solar over my skin
Researchers in Japan have built a PV-powered device to measure volumetric variations in blood circulation. The system, which is just a few microns thick, was built with an organic solar module, a polymer light-emitting diode (PLED), and an organic photodetector.
UK added 175 MW of solar in first quarter
More than 7% of the U.K.’s solar generation capacity is now unsubsidized, according to trade body Solar Energy UK, with the nation reaching more than 14 GW of photovoltaic projects during the first three months of the year.
5N Plus enters space solar cell business with acquisition of Azur Space
The purchase price should range between €73 million and €79 million. Azur Space produces triple-junction space solar cells with an average efficiency of up to 30% and is planning to develop ultra-thin solar cells with up to 35%.
Five bidders to compete in final phase of Uzbekistan’s 200 MW PV tender
The 200 MW solar park will be built in Sherabad, in southeastern Uzbekistan’s Surkhandarya region.
Low outdoor degradation for 20.76%-efficient solar cells made of UMG silicon
Spanish manufacturer Aurinka has tested the degradation rate of its 20.76%-efficient solar cells made of 100% upgraded metallurgical grade (UMG) silicon and has found it shows the same values as conventional polysilicon. The company is currently building a UMG factory in northern Spain.
Solar+storage pushing aside US coal, natural gas, says IEEFA
Technology improvements and price declines have made solar and wind the lowest-cost options in most of the United States, according to the Institute for Energy Economic and Financial Analysis.
