Qcells hits 28.6% efficiency with scalable perovskite-silicon solar cell
South Korea-based solar module manufacturer Qcells has set a new efficiency world record for a commercially scalable perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell, produced at its pilot line in Germany.
Strong finish to record year for UK heat pump installations
November 2024 data from certification body MCS reveal record year for UK air-sourced heat pump installations. Two consecutive months with more than 5,000 certified installs puts 2024 on track for 50% growth on previous year.
Solar applications to Dutch subsidy scheme drop by more than half
A Dutch subsidy scheme for renewable energy saw solar applications fall to 501 this year from 1,130 in 2023, as grid congestion and negative electricity prices reduced investment appeal.
Trina Solar hits new 27.08% record for HJT solar cell
Trina Solar has achieved a world-record 27.08% efficiency rating for a new n-type fully passivated heterojunction (HJT) solar cell. The Institute for Solar Energy Research in Hamelin (ISFH) has verified the result.
IEA-PVPS calls for harmonized testing, certification for building-integrated photovoltaics
The latest report from the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme (PVPS) says the building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) industry is facing significant challenges due to a lack of clear testing and certification procedures. It says international consensus and the harmonization of certification processes will be crucial for widespread adoption of the technology.
Better Energy connects second solar park to Swedish grid this year
Better Energy has connected its second Swedish solar project of 2024 to the grid. The 24 GWh Lidköping project joins the 25 GWh Studsvik facility, which is already operational.
Agrivoltaic systems improve farming in arid regions, say Australian researchers
University of Tasmania (UTAS) researchers examined the potential benefits of agrivoltaic systems in three countries and found that they can improve agricultural productivity in arid and semi-arid regions.
Solar advances across MENA region
The fossil fuel rich Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region faces mounting pressure to diversify its energy mix. While solar is cheap, it faces significant sociopolitical and economic challenges.
Indian solar cells costs more than Chinese imports, says CRISIL
India’s domestically manufactured solar cells cost 1.5 to two times more than Chinese imports, even after customs duties, says CRISIL Market Intelligence and Analytics. These higher prices could raise solar project capital costs by up to INR 10 million ($117,580)/MW and increase tariffs.
Canadian scientists build micro III-V solar cells with record-breaking open circuit voltage
The proposed cell is based on indium gallium phosphide (InGaP), indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) and germanium (Ge) and has an active area of 0.25 mm2. It can be used for applications in micro-concentrator photovoltaics (CPV).
