Increasing potential of silicon clathrate films for photovoltaics
Researchers led by scientists from CNRS in France are exploring an exotic form of silicon called silicon clathrate as a material for energy applications, including photovoltaics. Mastering the synthesis and using appropriate characterizations are key elements towards potential applications. Significant progress is being made for the fabrication of functional devices.
Nextracker introduces solar mount foundation services for soil types ‘anywhere’
The solar tracking provider introduced NX Anchor, further expanding the types of soil and areas that solar installers can develop on.
Mimicking chimpanzees’ hunting behavior to improve PV prediction models
Researchers have used the chimp optimization algorithm to optimize the hyperparameters of five PV power yield prediction machine learning models. This algorithm is based on the cooperative hunting behavior of chimpanzees in nature, mimicking the way they work together to target prey.
TOPCon solar cell built with printed aluminum paste achieves 22.56% efficiency
Developed by researchers in China, the TOPCon solar cell was screen printed with a paste made of silver and aluminum on the front side and an aluminum-only paste on the rear side. They added silicon to the aluminum paste to reduce metal recombination and improve the device’s open-circuit voltage.
India’s solar pump market set to expand
Gopal Kabra, the founder and CEO of GK Energy, speaks to pv magazine about India’s solar pump market, its key drivers, and future outlook.
Generac presents new residential batteries
The US-based storage system providers said its new batteries are configurable in 3 kWh modular increments up to 4 cabinets per site. Their roundtrip efficiency ranges from 88% to 91%.
Netherlands’ largest wastewater heat pump goes online in Utrecht
The largest heat pump in the Netherlands is now online at the Utrecht sewage treatment plant. It generates heat up to 75 C for the local network by using purified hot wastewater from a regional water authority.
Jackery, Geneverse present new residential energy storage system
The two US-based companies are showcasing their new home energy system with up to 123.2 kWh of storage at RE+ 2024 event in the United States. The new product has four MPPTs, with a max current of 16 A per string.
SmartHelio launches AI solar forecasting tool with 98.5% accuracy
SmartHelio has developed an AI solar forecasting tool with 98.5% accuracy, using socioeconomic details and climate data for predictive analytics.
Enact Systems expands PV installer, buyer platform
The US-based platform for buyers and installers of solar and energy storage projects has added several new productivity features, as well as German and Spanish language support. It also has some additional third-party application program interface (API) integrations.
