Emiliano Bellini
All solar cell efficiencies at a glance – updated
The research group led by Professor Martin Green has published Version 65 of the solar cell efficiency tables. There are 17 new results reported in the new version.
Netherlands deploys 1.76 GW of solar in H1
The Netherlands added 1.76 GW of solar capacity in the first half of 2024, with 148,166 new PV projects. By the end of June, the country’s total installed PV capacity had reached 26.06 GW.
Perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell based on indium oxide buffer layer achieves 30.04% efficiency
Researchers in China have fabricated a perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell that utilizes an indium oxide sputtering buffer layer to protect the perovskite absorber and the electron transport layer from potential damages arising from the electrode deposition process. The new layer not only ensured this protection but also showed strong optical and electrical properties.
Sunways unveils three-phase inverters for rooftop PV
Sunways’ new three-phase inverters have efficiency ratings of up to 98.6% and European efficiency ratings of 98.2%. They are available in five versions, with power outputs ranging from 15 kW to 30 kW.
Looming Trump tariffs drive rush on imports, push shipping costs higher
Freight costs are rising as businesses rush to import goods ahead of higher tariffs promised by US President-elect Donald Trump on Chinese and European products.
BIPV likely linked to recent fire at Brussels’ first net-zero building
A fire broke out at Brussels’ first net-zero energy structure, the Treurenberg building, in late October. The blaze, likely caused by building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) panels on the facade, led to an evacuation, with no injuries reported.
Open-source tool to eliminate redundant engineering costs in rooftop PV deployment
Researchers in Canada have developed an open-access online tool that reportedly helps homeowners achieve considerable savings in deploying rooftop PV systems. The tool is claimed to offer accurate structural engineering calculations while ensuring compliance with building codes.
Panama preps for first solar-plus-storage event
Panama will host its first solar-plus-storage event, RE+ Centroamérica, on Dec. 4 and 5 at the Panama Convention Center in Panama City.
Longi unveils heterojunction BC solar cells with 27.3% efficiency
The Chinese manufacturer said the device is based on dense passivating contacts that reduce parasitic light absorption and improve passivation. It used a streamlined manufacturing technique that is reportedly about one-third more effective than TOPCon mainstream technology.
Dutch parliament approves end of net metering in 2027
Trade body Holland Solar says the Dutch parliament has approved eliminating net metering in 2027, giving the solar sector clarity to move forward.
