Researchers led by scientists from CNRS in France are exploring an exotic form of silicon called silicon clathrate as a material for energy applications, including photovoltaics. Mastering the synthesis and using appropriate characterizations are key elements towards potential applications. Significant progress is being made for the fabrication of functional devices.

This week, Women in Solar Europe (WiSEu) gives voice to Filipa Monteiro Martins, Renewables Innovation Unit Manager at Portuguese energy company Galp. She says that inclusion is a critical driver of long-term business success and innovation, especially in the renewable energy industry, where the ability to adapt and evolve is key.

In a new weekly update for pv magazine, OPIS, a Dow Jones company, provides a quick look at the main price trends in the global PV industry.

In a new weekly update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, reports that atmospheric pattern resulted in higher than average irradiance from the UK to Poland, with solar generation records broken across several regions. However, northern areas like Norway and Scotland saw significantly less sunlight due to wet weather driven by an Icelandic low pressure system. Meanwhile, Italy and Greece, as well as the African Mediterranean coast experienced normal to slightly below-average irradiance, despite enduring record-breaking heatwaves.

Worldwide, solar has an important part to play in preventing climate breakdown and reducing the frequency of extreme weather events. But the regions most vulnerable to these conditions face their own challenges in building resilient energy systems. The right approach to renewable energy development can reap multiple benefits in these regions, as pv magazine heard when it spoke to Kamal Kishore, Special Representative for the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).

While other options exist, lithium-ion batteries are becoming the preferred way to store energy from renewable energy sources, with the help of IEC Standards.

The solar energy industry continues to innovate, striving to improve the efficiency and reliability of photovoltaic systems. One of the most promising advancements is the development of bifacial modules combined with tracking systems. These technologies aim to capture more sunlight and convert it into electricity, making solar energy more effective and affordable. IEA PVPS Task 13 is at the forefront of this innovation, working to enhance the performance and reliability of PV systems. This article explores the concept of bifacial tracking, its advantages, challenges, market developments, and the significant contributions of IEA PVPS Task 13.

This week, Women in Solar Europe (WiSEu) gives voice to Laure-Aline Baheux, Power & Renewables BL Manager at Omexom – Vinci Energies. She says companies must ask why they need more women, and reflect on the challenges of recruiting and retaining them. “It’s essential to adapt job offers and career paths. For instance, recognizing that women often apply only when they meet more qualifications than men,” she states.  

In a new weekly update for pv magazine, OPIS, a Dow Jones company, provides a quick look at the main price trends in the global PV industry.

In a new weekly update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, reports that Australia experienced extreme and diverse weather throughout July and August, resulting in varied impacts on solar irradiance across the country’s states.