Dual-axis solar tracker based on UV, MEMS sensors
Researchers have designed a new tracking system that utilizes an arithmetic optimization-based PID controller. The proposed tracker uses two different sensor types – a UV sensor and a micro-electromechanical solar (MEMS) sensor. The first one calculates the intensity of UV radiation received from the sun, and the second one forecasts the sun’s path across the sky.
Solid-state battery from ION reaches 800 cycles, no sign of common solid-state issues
The solid-state battery developer announced it has achieved 800 cycles with its battery, marking significant progress towards commercialization. If this trend continues, the development holds promising potential for grid-scale projects.
Sunrise brief: SunPower goes bankrupt
Also on the rise: Harris names clean energy advocate Governor Tim Walz as VP pick. Atlanta Motorsports Park goes solar. And more.
Quantum algorithm for photovoltaic maximum power point tracking
Researchers have developed a quantum particle swarm optimization algorithm for maximum power point tracking that reportedly generates 3.33% more power in higher temperature tests and 0.89% more power in partial shading tests compared to conventional swarm optimization algorithms.
Solar array installed for mission to Jupiter’s icy moon Europa
The Europa Clipper mission will send a craft the size of a basketball court to Europa, a moon considered a potential habitat for life.
U.S. startup develops 28%-efficient perovskite-silicon tandem solar module
PeroNova specializes in metal halide perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells made with its novel stability-enhancing interfacial treatment. It is targeting a range of applications including space and rooftop markets.
MIT scientists optimize perovskite solar cell components
Researchers at MIT have enhanced the stability of Spiro-MeOTAD in perovskite solar cells, achieving over 1,400 hours of high-temperature testing with minimal degradation in a lower efficiency cell.
U.S. engineers develop ChatGPT algorithm to design solar cells
OptoGPT is a new algorithm that harnesses the computer architecture underpinning ChatGPT. Its creators say that it will enable researchers and engineers to design optical multilayer film structures for a wide range of applications, including solar cells.
Perovskite-CIGS tandem solar cells have technical potential to achieve 26.69% efficiency
A Dutch and U.S. research team performed optical and electrical simulations to understand loss mechanisms in two terminal (2T) tandem cells based on perovskite and commercially available copper-indium-gallium-selenide (CIGS) cells, and subsequently established a roadmap to increase efficiency via four key modifications.
Sunrise brief: First Solar commissions 1.3 million square-foot R&D facility
Also on the rise: North American solar power purchase agreements rise 3% in Q2 Intersect Power closes $837 million in financing for three Tesla battery systems in Texas. And more.
