Strong revenue growth for biggest Chinese solar panel makers in Q1
JinkoSolar, Long, JA Solar, and Trina Solar have all reported impressive growth figures for the first quarter of this year.
Australia edged by China with cost of capital for utility scale PV
The International Renewable Energy Agency has released new data on the cost of capital for solar PV, onshore and offshore wind in the period between 2020 and 2021. Results show that Australia has the second lowest cost of capital in the Asia Pacific region at 4.6%, beaten out by China at 3.9%.
Adaptive control of V2Gs incorporating EV owner expectations
Australian researchers have developed a novel adaptive decentralised control strategy for electric vehicle (EV) integration, incorporating both microgrid and EV-side conditions into the primary frequency control. They have proposed new indices to evaluate the charge and discharge capabilities of EV batteries, as well as the satisfaction levels of EV owners.
Fraunhofer ISE produces hydrogen via PEM electrolyser with seawater
Fraunhofer ISE scientists have optimised a technical concept for a hydrogen plant at sea. They claim that their design is “technically and economically viable.”
Study shows n-type bifacial TOPCon cells more prone to degradation than p-type
Dutch scientists have reported higher degradation risk for n-type TOPCon cells with EVA encapsulant due to potential moisture degradation. Front-side metallisation makes n-type cells more vulnerable than p-type cells, according to damp heat tests.
Weekend read: Bigger modules, bigger headaches?
The debate continues over whether super-sized, high-power solar modules are a good thing for the industry and they appear to be here to stay. Vicente Parra and James Whittemore, from Enertis Applus+, consider the pitfalls to avoid when designing high-power solar projects.
Solis unveils hybrid inverters for rooftop applications
Solis has released a new line of hybrid inverters in five different power output versions, ranging from 3 kW to 8 kW. The hybrid inverters can be used with either lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries, with a maximum charging and discharging current of 190 A.
CATL launches 500 Wh/kg condensed matter battery
Chinese battery industry heavyweight CATL has unveiled a novel condensed matter battery technology with an energy density of up to 500 Wh/kg. The company said it can achieve mass production within this year.
Researchers look beyond silicon to potentially double solar cell efficiency
A team at Colorado State University proposes making thin-film solar cells from naturally abundant molybdenum disulfide.
Agrivoltaics for grape farms
Researchers in Hong Kong have designed an agrivoltaic system that uses blockchain tech and smart contracts to reduce uncertainties between PV system operators and grape farmers. The proposed system uses rainwater to clean solar panels and provide irrigation.
