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.
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.
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.
New algorithms boost dual-axis solar tracker performance
Researchers in Australia and India have developed two solar tracker optimisation techniques that can purportedly increase power generation by up to 54.36% when combined. One uses a light sensor and the other relies on data from GPS and a real-time clock.
Monash engineers boost zinc-air battery performance with cobalt-iron catalyst
Engineers at Monash University in Melbourne have developed a new catalyst they say could bring zinc-air batteries “closer to real-world, grid-scale and transport uses.”
Renewables reach record 77.9% share in NEM
The share of renewables in Australia’s main electricity grid continues to reach new highs, delivering 77.9% of electricity demand on Sunday with solar power contributing more than 55% of the record-breaking clean energy mix.
Solar cell study boosts efficiency beyond 20% using caesium bromide interlayer
A new collaborative study between six universities, including three in Australia have published breakthrough findings demonstrating how caesium bromide, can dramatically improve the efficiency of crystalline silicon solar cells.
Monash claims supercapacitor breakthrough to rival batteries
Researchers at Victoria’s Monash University have developed a new carbon-based material they claim allows supercapacitors to store as much energy as traditional lead-acid batteries, while delivering power much faster than conventional batteries can manage.
Survey shows battery boom extends to C&I sector
Early results from a survey of Australia’s commercial and industrial solar industry reveal surging demand for battery energy storage systems and increasing service expectations.
Research reveals rates and types of rooftop PV connector failures
Analysis of more than 6,000 rooftop PV connectors shows that tight wire bending radius, extra dirty connectors, and loose nuts are the most common failure causes.
