Novel tool for PV system sizing allows users to assess tradeoffs between reliability and costs
Developed by scientists in Egypt, trhe Green Energy Solutions software allows users to assess the tradeoffs between the PV system reliability and its costs. Compared to PVsyst, it has an error margin of up to 9%.
New research suggests renewables may not necessarily foster democracy, peace
Researchers in Germany have found that there is “no evidence” to support the notion that renewable energy generation fosters peace through prosperity. The trio of academics came to this conclusion after empirically testing the assumption that distributed renewable energies may reduce international conflicts and promote democratic values.
New survey shows ‘massive’ increase in PV module microcracks
A new study from Clean Energy Associates (CEA) shows that 83% of sites tested as part of a global survey had line cracks, 78% had a soldering anomaly and 76% had complex cracks. The survey involved visual inspections combined with electroluminescence testing across 148 sites in 16 countries.
Solar module prices dive to record low
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, OPIS, a Dow Jones company, offers bite-sized analysis on solar PV module supply and price trends.
Transformer shortages: New bottleneck of the energy storage supply chain
Transformer shortages are taking their toll on battery energy storage system (BESS) integrators, as competition in the market intensifies.
JinkoSolar claims 26.89% efficiency rating for new N-type solar cell
JinkoSolar claims that its new 182 mm n-type monocrystalline silicon solar cell has reached a maximum solar conversion efficiency of 26.89%. It says the achievement has been independently verified by a third party.
Strategies to develop ‘solar neighborhoods’
Researchers from the Australian PV Institute are part of an international group of scientists that have devised a list of recommendations to support the creation of solar neighborhoods. In a recently published study they highlight the importance of legislative frameworks and advanced computing.
Belgians beat wind to claim World Solar Challenge
Belgian Solar Team Innoptus has claimed back-to-back Bridgestone World Solar Challenge titles, beating home dozens of competitors from around the world to win the 3,000 kilometre race through Australia’s outback.
Powin and Hitachi Energy form strategic alliance for power control systems
Hitachi Energy will take majority ownership in eks Energy, a power electronics and energy management solutions provider.
Australia labelled world’s ‘most volatile’ electricity market
Australia’s power market is experiencing the most pricing fluctuations of anywhere in the world, according to research from Rystad Energy. This volatility is a result of unplanned coal plant outages, natural disasters impacting transmission lines, and high solar penetration pushing down midday prices.
