Perovksite-TOPCon tandem solar cell based on self-assembled monolayer achieves 31.1% efficiency
Researchers in China have fabricated a perovskite-TOPCon solar cell with a top perovskite device utilizing a self-assembled monolayer aimed to improved cell stability. The tandem cell achieved a high fill factor and a certified efficiency of 30.9%.
Dual aerosol events hit PV output across Southern Europe, North Africa
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, reports that atmospheric particulates from both Saharan dust and Canadian wildfire led to reductions in solar irradiance and increased panel soiling in the Mediterranean region over the last week.
SolarPower Europe calls for tough cyber rules following Danish import probe
The recent discovery of unexplained components in Danish energy equipment highlights the urgent need for stronger EU solar cybersecurity rules, according to SolarPower Europe.
Solar key to enable clean cooking in refugee camps
Scientists in Spain studied electricity demand data for the Kobe refugee camp in Ethiopia to optimize several minigrid scenarios, also integrating the use of electric pressure cookers. Their analysis showed that introduction of the cooker required an increase in PV capacity of up 68%.
Polysilicon market seeks strategic solutions amid persistent pessimism
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, OPIS, a Dow Jones company, reports that pessimism in the global polysilicon market has deepened, driven by a persistent oversupply that exceeds buyers’ total monthly purchasing volumes. Several global polysilicon buyers have confirmed maintaining substantial inventories, which has contributed to the current subdued trading activity.
Controversial rooftop solar bill glides through California’s Appropriations Committee
The California State Assembly’s Appropriations Committee passed a bill that would renege more than a million commitments to the state’s rooftop solar customers.
Fraunhofer ISE developing InP-on-GaAs substrates for III-V solar cells
Fraunhofer ISE researchers say their newly fabricated gallium arsenide substrates (InP-on-GaAs wafers) can replace prime indium phosphide wafers and offer a scalable pathway to lower costs.
Iraq inaugurates 2 MW solar array at government palace
Iraq has installed a 2 MW solar array at a key government building as part of a broader effort to transition state facilities to renewable energy. The project supports the country’s push for sustainable power use across its public sector.
Innovation in building-integrated photovoltaics
At The smarter E Europe 2025, pv magazine Editor Mark Hutchins explored Fraunhofer ISE’s latest integrated PV innovations, including color-customizable flexible modules for buildings, and new agrivoltaic research combining solar with crop cultivation.
The rise of vertical agrivoltaics
Next2Sun AG executives spoke with pv magazine at Intersolar Europe 2025 on the growing momentum of agrivoltaics. The company doubled annual installations to 40 MW in 2024, underscoring vertical PV’s value in markets like Italy, Germany and France.
