Gallium arsenide solar cell achieves 23.1% efficiency via electrochemical porosification
An international research group has utilized a new porosification technique to build gallium arsenide (GaAs) solar cells that allow the recovery of germanium films. The new cell achieved an efficiency that is reportedly in line with that of other GaAs PV devices, but can be produced at a lower cost thanks to the reuse of germanium.
Using air conditioning to cool down PV modules, dry dishes
An international research team has investigated how air conditioning may be used to reduce the operating temperature of PV panels. The researchers not only found that the proposed approach is technically viable, but they also tested the use of excess heat from the panels for drying dishes.
Long-duration storage and renewables can cut global industrial emissions by 65%
A recent report from the LDES Council finds industrial carbon emissions comprise around a quarter of annual global greenhouse gasses, and are growing by 2% every year.
Ascent Solar announces 17.55% efficiency for CIGS tech
Ascent Solar, a US-based manufacturer, has achieved an efficiency of 17.55% for its copper, indium, gallium and selenide (CIGS) technology. It says it plans to release a new CIGS solar module with this efficiency rating soon.
Solestial wins NASA contract to develop solar blanket wings for spacecraft
The company received nearly $1 million to develop ultrathin PV for the next generation for space infrastructure.
California greenhouse to integrate clear-glass photovoltaics
ClearVue clear solar glass will be installed on System USA’s greenhouse, adding 82 kW of power.
Maintaining quality, reliability and durability in the solar supply chain
At the pv magazine Roundtables US 2023, four experts weighed in on the importance of testing, inspection, standardized data and more, in the never-ending quest to build a reliable and resilient solar industry.
New survey shows ‘massive’ increase in PV module microcracks
A new study from Clean Energy Associates (CEA) shows that 83% of sites tested as part of a global survey had line cracks, 78% had a soldering anomaly and 76% had complex cracks. The survey involved visual inspections combined with electroluminescence testing across 148 sites in 16 countries.
Ascent Solar approved to apply for federal funds to finance agrivoltaic project
Ascent Solar’s proposed system utilizes thin film solar cell technology from copper indium gallium diselenide chemistry to provide farmers with energy-producing and resource-saving agrivoltaic systems.
Advancing iron and salt batteries with $8 million in seed funding
Inlyte Energy moves forward in development of a nearly 50-year old battery technology with ARPA-A award, recent acquisition of Beta Research and new funding by At One Ventures.
