China modules prices trend lower on weak demand, oversupply
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.
DEWA unveils new method to measure current-voltage curves in PV systems
A group of scientists from the UAE-based energy utility has developed a new method to conduct I-V curve measurements without transporting the solar modules to laboratories for detailed analysis. The proposed Suns-Vmp approach reportedly offers a “very low” average root mean square error between the simulated and the real I-V curves.
Researchers discover method to help perovskite solar cells self-heal
A global team of researchers – lead by Monash University in Melbourne, Australia – says it has made a breakthrough that could make perovskite solar cells more reliable and efficient.
Pontoon-type structure for offshore floating photovoltaics
Researchers in China have developed a floating structure for offshore PV that reportedly offers improved stability and dynamic responses compared to conventional semi-submerged floating designs. The floating structure consists of pontoon-truss platform composed of four pontoons and a steel truss connected by soft ropes.
Sinovoltaics updates North American solar module manufacturing map
The latest North American manufacturing hub report from Sinovoltaics maps current and planned capacity for 95 plants in the region’s PV module supply chain. The report tracks announcements of current and future capacities at plants producing PV modules, cells, wafers, ingots, polysilicon, and metallurgical-grade silicon.
Midsummer to begin production of thin film cells in southern Italy after summer
The “largest European thin-film solar cell manufacturing plant” will begin operation after receiving production certification. Midsummer executive Erik Olsson tells pv magazine Italy that production is expected to start after the summer, at a time of sharp increase in demand for thin-film photovoltaic cells from the commercial and industrial solar segment.
The many potentials of solar energy
In addition to producing renewable electricity, solar energy can also enable the clean production of hydrogen. Its potential in different applications is being assessed by several teams of researchers around the world. Adrian Pennington reports on some of this R and D and how IEC Standards can help in the third of the IEC columns for pv magazine
Trina expects consolidation, diversification of technology in challenging market conditions
At Intersolar Europe 2024, pv magazine spoke with Helena Li, executive president at Trina Solar, about fierce competition and consolidation in the PV industry. She believes the strongest manufacturers will become stronger in the months to come and says only product diversification and innovation can help companies move ahead in the current overcapacity scenario.
IEA-PVPS releases fact sheet on environmental life cycle assessment of PV Systems
The updated IEA PVPS Task 12 Fact Sheet provides a comprehensive assessment of the environmental impacts associated with PV systems. It highlights the significant advancements made in PV technology, emphasizing improved efficiencies and reduced environmental footprints.
‘Nobody is making money right now’
As part of our Intersolar 2024 interview series, pv magazine spoke with Bill Mulligan, CEO of Singapore-based IBC solar module maker Maxeon. He states the IBC technology will remain competitive despite overcapacity and dropping modules prices and says Maxeon may enforce intellectual property rights with all existing and new back contact competitors that are allegedly utilizing its technologies.
