New method to predict solar module lifespans under sand erosion
A team of researchers in Algeria has designed a new testbed and a novel acceleration law that accounts for both wind speed and sand density. The new methodology was tested on four PV modules and showed lifespans of up to 47 years in terms of sand impact.
Passive solar module cooling tech linked to improved project efficiency
As solar deployment accelerates in markets where high ambient temperatures are the norm, researchers across the globe continue to experiment with new approaches to cooling PV modules. A cost-efficient solution could have a significant impact on project efficiency and panel lifespans.
Study shows reducing number of solar modules per string reduces hotspots risk
Scientists in Indonesia have investigated early operational defects in a 24.9 MW solar PV system in Sumatra and have identified hotspot formation as the dominant defect. They also detected 282 cases of glass cracking, 350 cases of junction box failures and shading effects linked to module defects.
Research paints positive picture of used EV battery health
New Australian research around battery degradation in used electric vehicles has found average battery health exceeded 90%, even for vehicles that have travelled more than 120,000 kilometres.
Sky’s the limit for mass produced space-grade solar cell innovation
Extraterrestrial Power has developed a space-grade solar cell thin enough to be mass produced like terrestrial solar cells, and which it estimates to be ten times more affordable than current space solar cells.
Where should we look for new metals that are critical for green energy technology? Volcanoes may point the way
About 400 kilometres northwest of Sydney, just south of Dubbo, lies a large and interesting body of rock formed around 215 million years ago by erupting volcanoes.
PV windows reduce energy consumption in greenhouses by 57%
Developed by a research team including experts from West Australia-based specialist Clearvue, the new PV windows were also able to reduce water usage in a greenhouse by 29%. The group believes that a fully glazed solar greenhouse could offset up to 100% of the energy consumption in worldwide locations by using adaptable and efficient temperature control techniques.
South Australia leads international rooftop solar cost rankings
A new study of residential solar installation costs reveals South Australia has the lowest costs nationally while even Australia’s most expensive states are about three times cheaper than those in the United States and Canada.
NSW solar farms lead way for large-scale generation
Solar farms in New South Wales led the way for Australia’s utility scale PV energy output in January, generating 929 GWh of renewable electricity to drive all Australian large-scale PV and wind generation up 12% on the same time last year.
Thermal storage beats hydrogen, electrification on industrial costs
A new study in Germany shows the advantages of thermal energy storage in the decarbonisation of industrial processes, including in Australia. The researchers noted clear cost advantages and high potential for flexibility in the power grid.
