Western Europe

An international research team has developed a new two-dimensional perovskite interlayer based on a co-crystal engineering strategy for more robust perovskite films. It demonstrated improved performance in small area perovskite solar cells and, in a 48 cm2 module, contributed to retain 95% of initial efficiency after 5,000 h.

An Oxford researcher has found that transparent conducting electrodes can reduce perovskite–silicon tandem solar cell efficiency by over 2%, with losses linked to electrical resistance, optical effects, and geometric trade-offs. Using a unified optical–electrical model, the scientist showed how careful optimisation of TCE stacks, coatings, and cell design is critical to closing the gap toward the 37%–38% efficiency frontier.

Pertamina Power has teamed up with HyET Solaris to validate the commercial feasibility of producing and marketing HyET’s lightweight and flexible solar products in Indonesia, by developing a 50 MW per year factory pilot.

Renolit France has introduced the Alkor Bright reflective membrane for bifacial rooftop PV systems, offering high solar reflectivity and durability for flat or pitched roofs. The membrane helps keep buildings cooler while boosting the energy output of bifacial solar modules.

Venture capital firm Molten Ventures leads investment in global battery energy storage benchmarking business Modo Energy. Founded in the United Kingdom in 2019, Modo Energy has expanded to cover continental European markets, Australia and the United States.

Titan Containers has unveiled a new cold storage solution featuring built-in solar panels and improved insulation technology, helping to reduce energy use by 55% compared to conventional refrigerated containers.

Tests conducted by a research team in outdoor environments in Spain and Poland have demonstrated a strong correlation between perovskite solar cell degradation and the combined effects of climatic and operating conditions. The scientists found that open-circuit operation accelerates degradation, whereas operation at the maximum power point and under short-circuit conditions has a lower impact.

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a prototype car with a silicon-free, 20%-efficient nanoparticle solar coating that powers the vehicle even when off and uses modules thinner than a human hair.

Pioneering solar researcher Martin Green has received arguably one of the world’s top awards for engineers and scientists in recognition of his achievements in photovoltaics and driving the global shift to renewables.

DHL Freight Sweden and Denmark-based Green Energy Group announced a one year nationwide pilot in Sweden to test the use of vehicle integrated PV with a fleet of biofuel-powered transport trucks.