Coating metallic ribbons for aesthetic implementation of BIPV
Researchers in Switzerland have looked into three kinds of black ink coating for metallic ribbons used in PV modules. They have compared their visual stability and their effect on electrical performance.
Optimization model to integrate heat pumps in non-continuous industrial processes
The new optimization method is intended at designing smaller and cheaper heat pumps. Its creators said the new approach also enables higher Opex savings and an improved coefficient of performance.
Self-interest key to maximizing rooftop solar installations
Researchers in Switzerland have found that the most effective way for governments to nudge homeowners into installing rooftop solar PV sytems hinges on individuals being told how much money they’ve lost by not getting it sooner.
New research questions priority dispatch for solar PV during peak loads
Swiss scientists claim no distribution grid expansion is needed to increase the share of solar PV in energy systems, but they warn that priority dispatch for PV during peak loads may become a serious issue in the years to come. Among a range of recommendations, they proposed reducing peak loads by developing grid-serving behavior with PV system owners having to do their part.
Staubli invests in US developer of solar inspection robots
Switzerland’s Staubli Electrical Connectors says it has invested in California-based PV robot developer OnSight Technology to fund the advancement of its algorithms and artificial intelligence technology.
Swiss utility switches on 200-meter solar bicycle path
Swisspower-Stadtwerk SIG says its pilot solar bicycle path in Satigny will pave the way for similar projects in Switzerland.
Research shows heat pumps perform better than fossil fuel heating in mild cold climates
A British research group has aggregated information from seven field studies on heat pumps from around the world and has found air-source devices have an average coefficient of performance (COP) of 2.74 when temperatures are above −10 C. Below that, COP is between 1.5 and 2.
Axpo to build a 9 MW alpine solar plant in Switzerland
Alpin Solar Ybrig, a 9 MW ground-mounted solar plant, is being planned for an area of around 9 hectares on existing pastureland in the Roggenegg area, in the canton of Schwyz.
Leasing vs. buying a heat pump: Survey shows homeowners may prefer leasing
Swiss researchers conducted a survey among 1,582 single-family house owners located in Switzerland, Germany, and France to know more about their preference for leasing or buying a heat pump. They found that lease payments and lease contracts are crucial factors in decision-making, and that homeowners tend to prefer all-inclusive leasing products with lower monthly payments.
Foldable solar carport extends, retracts in response to weather
Switzerland’s Dhp Technology AG says it plans to deploy new retractable PV systems at 45 motorway service areas in the Swiss cantons of Valais and Bern. The foldable arrays can be retracted and protected during extreme weather conditions or hail storms.
