Modules & Upstream Manufacturing

An international research group has created a closed-loop, transparent energy platform based on PV power generation and hydrogen production from photo-electrochemical cells. The system is claimed to supply power without interruption and to be transparent enough to be integrated into buildings.

Manufactured in a new facility in California, what sets the Timberline Solar roof system apart from others is that it directly integrates solar technology into traditional roofing processes and materials.

Also on the rise: Enphase starts shipping IQ8 inverter. Michigan gets two new solar projects bringing 50 MW to the state. Meyer Burger to bring solar module manufacturing and jobs to Arizona. A bill aims to re-establish Washington’s former highly effective solar incentive program. Watch the solar array deploy on NASA’s James Webb telescope.

The PV industry in 2021 has largely been defined by disruption: Price increases from raw materials to final shipping have led to shortages in PV module supply and project delays the world over. Despite these upsets, innovation has continued at pace, and the year has seen plenty of technological twists and turns that are sure to spell good news for solar in the long run. Read on for a look back at some of the biggest developments.

A diversified and talented workforce, proximity to customers, and strong partnerships on the ground in Arizona prompted Meyer Burger to establish a production site in Goodyear, Arizona.

The record efficiency was achieved by engineering the cell with reduced copper(II) oxide (CuO) and copper (Cu) impurities in the thin-film deposition. It showed an open-circuit voltage of 1.13 V, a short-circuit current of 10.63 mA/cm2, and a fill factor of 0.696.

The panels match the look of composite shingles and come in four different shades.

Origami Solar’s steel frame is designed to reduce costs and carbon footprint, and address supply chain barriers.

California-based Infinity Energy plans to build $11 million facility for manufacturing solar-powered electric car charging stations

The company currently has a manufacturing capacity of 110 MW, which is planned for expansion to 1 GW by 2023.