Silver prices surge, yet ‘thrifting’ poses little threat to solar cell, module quality
With silver prices nearing $75 per ounce, researchers from the University of New South Wales and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems tell pv magazine that efforts to reduce silver use in solar cells will not compromise module quality if properly engineered.
Researchers test solar panel cooling using stagnant water layer
Researchers have developed a stagnant water layer cooling concept and tested it using seawater, tap water, and desalinated water. The panel temperature decreased by up to 8.2 °C, while power output increased by approximately 28%.
Australian researchers achieve 27.06% efficiency with triple-junction perovskite solar cell
A team of researchers led by the University of Sydney has fabricated a triple-junction perovskite-perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell that achieved a power conversion efficiency of up to 27.06% and set new standards for thermal stability.
New sieving tech for solar cell silver recovery
Researchers at University of New South Wales have reported details about a novel sieving-aids technology that improves the separation of metal fragments from other components when recycling end-of-life PV panels. The patented process reportedly enhances the recovery of silver.
Solar module prices to rise 9% in Q4, says Wood Mackenzie
Wood Mackenzie says module prices will climb as China ends export rebates and consolidates polysilicon production.
Novel fluorine recovery method promises polymer recycling benefits
Researchers have developed a novel defluorination method to dispose of PTFE, used in solar componentry and electric cable coating, that converts its constituent fluorine compounds and could enable eco-friendly polymer recycling.
Building-integrated concentrating photovoltaics for vertical applications
An Indian-British research team has developed a building-integrated linear concentrating PV facade by sandwiching an asymmetric compound parabolic concentrator, PERC cells, and encapsulation layers between two sheets of glass.
Singlet fission research breakthrough unlocks high solar cell efficiency
University of New South Wales researchers have filed patent protection and are working to scale production of a new class of photostable organic molecules proven to boost silicon solar cell efficiency, reduce heat and extend panel lifetimes using singlet fission.
Risen presents 475 W TOPCon solar panel with 23.8% efficiency
Chinese solar module maker Risen Energy has introduced a 475 W bifacial solar module with a power conversion efficiency of 23.8% to the Australian market, targeting the rooftop market.
KAUST achieves 28.7% efficiency in perovskite-perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell
An international team of researchers led by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology has fabricated a triple junction perovskite-perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell that achieved a world record efficiency for this cell architecture. The device incorporates stabilised perovskites that ensure improved performance and stability.
