I, Photovoltaics
New research from Germany has investigated for the first time the idea of building a photovoltaic Dyson sphere, a theoretical megastructure that could provide vast amounts of energy for interstellar space travel and large-scale technological endeavors. Despite its highly theoretical and science-fiction inspiration, the study explains what consequences a similar construct would have on life on Earth.
Vaillant, Fraunhofer ISE present residential heat pump with new safety concept
The novel heat pump system relies on a thermal sensor based on an adsorbent-coated sensor layout developed by Vaillant in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Physical Measurement Techniques (Fraunhofer IPM). This technology is reportedly effective in preventing propane from forming an ignitable mixture with air outside the device.
The Hydrogen Stream: BASF starts Germany’s largest PEM electrolyzer
BASF has commissioned a 54 MW PEM electrolyzer at a site in Germany, while Sungrow Hydrogen has secured a major order for alkaline hydrogen production equipment from China Coal Ordos Energy.
Germany deploys 1.53 GW of PV in February
The country’s cumulative installed PV capacity reached approximately 102.3 GW at the end of February.
Horizontal single-axis trackers key to reduce agricultural yield losses in agrivoltaics
Fraunhofer ISE researchers investigating the impact of single-axis trackers on energy yield and agricultural losses in agrivoltaics have found that their use created an optimal balance between light available for photosynthesis and light available for electricity production.
The impact of PV on peatlands
Germany’s Fraunhofer ISE and partners have tested different PV systems on peatland and have pointed out the importance of only developing drained and heavily degraded peatlands for the dual use of carbon storage in peat and solar power generation.
RWE plans 1.2 GWh battery on German former coal plant
The energy company says it is investing a mid-three-digit million euro amount into construction of the 600 MW battery energy storage system (BESS).
Nexol Photovolthermic launches new PV water heater
Nexol Photovolthermic AG has developed a new hybrid solar water heater for residential use, offering 1.5 kW of heating output and sizes ranging from 80 to 300 liters.
Solar panel glare temporarily cancels air traffic at Amsterdam Airport
On March 4, Schiphol’s Polderbaan Runway has been unavailable to landing traffic between 10 am and 12 pm in sunny weather due to glare from solar panels.
Heat pumps in Germany nearly twice as expensive as in UK
RWTH Aachen University conducted the price comparison in cooperation with Octopus Energy. The reasons are significantly different technical and regulatory requirements, but also the funding system.
