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Technology and R&D

Thornova launches 720 W TOPCon solar panel with 23.2% efficiency

U.S.-based Thornova said its new panel features a power conversion efficiency spanning from 22.4% to 23.2% and a temperature coefficient of -0.29% per C. The company is a subsidiary of China-based manufacturer Sunova Solar and is currently planning a cell and module factory at an unspecified location in the United States.

Maxeon claims 24.9% efficiency for IBC solar panel

Maxeon said it has achieved a 24.9% efficiency rating for a full-scale Maxeon 7 solar panel using its IBC technology. The US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) confirmed the result.

Sodium-ion batteries – a viable alternative to lithium?

While lithium ion battery prices are falling again, interest in sodium ion (Na-ion) energy storage has not waned. With a global ramp-up of cell manufacturing capacity under way, it remains unclear whether this promising technology can tip the scales on supply and demand. Marija Maisch reports.

Next-gen battery trends

Lithium ion is the industry standard for a reason. Marija Maisch examines the most promising technological advances that could lead to further improvements in performance and cost from this versatile battery chemistry.

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Scientists identify new ‘promising’ absorber material for thin-film solar cells

Researchers in the United States have identified zintl-phosphide (BaCd2P2) as a new potential high efficiency absorber material for thin-film PV applications among 40,000 promising inorganic materials. The selected compound has a potential energy bandgap of 1.45 eV and a carrier lifetime of up to 30 ns.

New York announces $16 million fund for clean hydrogen research and demonstration

The office of Governor Hochul released funds administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

Sunrise brief: Direct pay process, tax credit transfer recapture risk, and more

Also on the rise: Major U.S. bank signs $140 million tax equity deal for Louisiana solar project. Florida-based rooftop solar and storage company goes public. And more.

247Solar closer to commercializing modular concentrating solar plant

Taking a page from the solar PV and wind industries, the 247Solar Plant is modular and the majority of its components are mass produced and can be assembled at the site.

Colorado startup develops air-source steam heat pump for industrial use

Colorado-based AtmosZero has closed a Series A funding round that will help it accelerate the commercialization of its Boiler 2.0 technology. The air-sourced heat pump generates steam for industrial use and can be combined with PV generation and storage.

U.S. scientists build hybrid energy system integrating PV, radiative cooling

The hybrid system has a cooling power of 63.8 W/m2 and a photovoltaic power output of 159.9 W/m2. According to its creators, the cooling capacity provided by the system can be used in buildings or refrigerators.

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