Technology and R&D

NREL researchers explore power-to-weight ratios in thin film solar pv products, looking at premium price ($1.25-$100/W) gigawatt scale niches not directly competing with crystalline silicon solar modules.

Japan’s JGC Corporation reports an efficient method of converting hydrogen to ammonia, which can later be combusted to generate carbon-free electricity. Ammonia, according to JGC, has various advantages over hydrogen in terms of safety and cost effectiveness.

The testing lab is on its own again after a management buyout, and Jenya Meydbray is returning as CEO. PVEL will still collaborate with DNV GL on its annual module scorecard.

pv magazine brings you video coverage of our Future PV Roundtable at SPI 2018, which looked at technology development from the cell to the grid level.

In this interview pv magazine talks with the chief research officer at the United States’ foremost clean energy laboratory about the work that NREL has been doing, and what to expect for the future of electricity and transportation.

Alta Devices’ gallium arsenide solar research cells have been certified with a 29.1% efficiency, setting a new single junction solar cell efficiency record.

The Solar Energy Technologies Office is seeking feedback from solar professionals on what topics it ought research within solar photovoltaics, solar thermal, systems integration and soft cost reduction.

NREL has proposed a new methodology for determining solar module degradation rates, taking into account measurement challenges such as sensor drift, inverter nuances, soiling and others – keeping the focus on the solar modules themselves.

An analysis of a First Solar power plant in Tampa, Florida suggests that by operating solar plants with more flexibility operators can save money for ratepayers – while also allowing for significantly higher penetration levels of renewables.

The NASA InSight lander generated 4,588 watt-hours during sol 1, a new record for electricity generation on Mars.