Research

A research team from the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory has analyzed n-type modules deployed in a 3 MW commercial PV project in an effort to assess the high degradation rate reported by the plant owner. The scientists found that ultraviolet-induced degradation (UVID) was a major factor affecting the facility’s performance.

Scientists from Japan, Saudi Arabia and the United States have investigated existing back-contact perovskite solar cell architectures and have proposed a strategy to help reach commercial production.

A new test curve for determining solar panels’ breaking point from hail uses a broader spectrum of impact energies and testing products.

Canadian and U.S. researchers have investigated applying pressure to a 2D hybrid organic-inorganic perovskite to tune the optical and electronic properties to suit photovoltaic applications, light emitting diodes or other semiconductor devices.

Local energy initiatives have increased at the local level, but researchers say more focus on addressing spatial planning and economic benefits is needed in the renewable energy transition.

Accurately measuring the performance of perovskite solar cells and modules requires significant modifications to long-established testing standards used in silicon PV. Researchers are settling on methods that rely on up to several minutes of constant light exposure and other time-consuming procedures. These may be fine for the laboratory setting, but those looking to produce this technology at scale need standardized methods that can characterize cells and modules at a much faster rate.

A research team have fabricated a solar thermoelectric generator (STEG) that is reportedly 15 times more efficient than current state-of-the-art devices by concentrating on the managing the hot and the cold sides of the device rather its semiconductor materials.

A study explored the relationship between energy insecurity and severe energy-limiting behaviors to lower bills, and how interventions with rooftop solar and energy storage systems can allow recipients to live safely and comfortably in their homes while also being able to afford necessities like food and medicine.

Research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology highlights 81 unique innovations across a diverse range of research efforts and industries that have impacted PV system costs since 1970, the majority of which originate from outside the sector.

An in-depth study looked at the varying facets within Washington’s agriculture industry to determine how and where agrivoltaics can be best implemented to help meet the state’s energy needs and provide financial support to the state’s agriculture industry.