Articles tagged with Solar Power
Scientists at the University of Groningen discovered a way to harvest extra energy from 'hot electrons' in solar cells, slowing down energy loss to nanoseconds. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient solar cells, exceeding the theoretical 33% limit.
The UN University's latest publication highlights the need for domain-informed AI in grid planning to address physical and fiscal risks from outdated climate data. The authors warn that 15-20 year lifespans of electricity infrastructure are based on historical weather records unlikely to hold in the coming decades.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison have designed a new tin-based perovskite with built-in protection against air and moisture, addressing one of the biggest challenges facing tin-based perovskite solar cells. The new material achieved 16.2% efficiency and remained stable during extended testing.
A new study models a future net-zero European power system and tests it against 80 years of historical weather data to understand how it would handle stress with periods of low wind and solar generation, combined with high demand. The study concludes that the risk is greatest during winter when cold and wind-still conditions persist, h...
Scientists have developed a new synergistic metallization strategy for TOPCon solar cells, achieving a certified power conversion efficiency of 26.31%. The approach reduces optical shading and contact resistance losses, boosting the short-circuit current density to a record high.
Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology have created a more stable interface between the different layers of perovskite solar cells, improving their efficiency and operational lifetime. The new concept enables large-area modules to be coated with a uniform layer, allowing for practical application testing.
Researchers developed a new method to improve the fabrication of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) through blade coating, enabling large-scale manufacturing of high-efficiency perovskite solar cells. The approach enhances device reproducibility and stability by suppressing SAM aggregation.
Researchers propose a data-driven forecasting approach to predict DER adoption patterns and quantify uncertainty for more informed decision making. The framework provides plausible adoption scenarios, enabling utilities, regulators, and planners to make strategic investments and plan for long-term infrastructure needs.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have successfully demonstrated a scalable approach to solar-powered plastic recycling, converting plastic waste into clean hydrogen fuel and valuable industrial chemicals in outdoor conditions. The technology uses a simple spray-coating method to produce photocatalyst materials and reactors ...
Researchers developed a liquid material that charges like a battery, transforms like a living organism, and resets itself in open air. The material stores power for months and can be recharged, making it useful for adaptive clean renewable systems.
A new study finds that coal pollution reduces global solar electricity output by 5.8%, equivalent to 111 TWh of lost energy, with aerosol-related losses reaching 74.0 TWh annually. This constraint on the clean energy transition underscores the need for pollution control measures to maximize renewable energy output.
Researchers at NTU Singapore created perovskite solar cells that are 10,000 times thinner than human hair and achieved high power conversion efficiencies. These semi-transparent cells could be integrated into buildings, vehicles, and wearable devices without changing their appearance.
Researchers developed an additive design strategy to control crystallization in all-perovskite tandem solar cells, achieving a certified power conversion efficiency of 30.3%. The strategy promotes homogeneous nucleation and uniform crystal growth, improving film uniformity and reducing defects.
A new universal model explains and guides energy level alignment in perovskite solar cell interfaces using hole-collecting monolayers, enabling optimized interfacial energy levels and reduced development time. The study provides practical guidance for designing materials with improved performance for emerging solar technologies.
Researchers developed a method that improves perovskite solar cell performance by triggering molecular interactions at the interface between two films, resulting in more efficient and durable material. The technique achieved a power conversion efficiency of 25.61%, surpassing previous records.
A new study introduces AI-based control strategies that ensure local grids remain reliable and resilient. By utilizing Artificial Neural Networks, the system can predict and compensate for grid changes in real-time, outperforming traditional control methods.
A study by researchers from the University of Michigan and international institutions recommends prioritizing grid upgrades targeting long-term demand expectations to minimize total costs. By upgrading the grid first, utilities can create a more efficient infrastructure that leverages Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) chargers more effectively.
Researchers developed an innovative colloidal chemistry strategy to enhance the performance of all-perovskite tandem solar cells, achieving a power conversion efficiency of 29.76%. The unified carboxylate-based modulator system regulates nucleation dynamics, suppressing phase segregation and promoting uniform crystal growth.
A team of Chinese researchers found that façade-integrated photovoltaics can generate substantial electricity while reducing cooling demand, thereby reducing carbon emissions and improving urban climate adaptation. FIPV adoption could lead to meaningful economic and climate gains worldwide.
The new vapour-deposition method delivers unprecedented durability in perovskite–silicon tandem solar cells, achieving over 30% power-conversion efficiency and operating stability exceeding 2,000 hours. This breakthrough paves the way for real-world deployment of tandem solar modules.
Researchers at Jeonbuk National University have developed a new interface engineering strategy for back-contact solar cells, which can improve efficiency and stability. The team created a bilayer tin oxide electron transport layer that enhances interfacial contact and reduces recombination losses.
Researchers at Chonnam National University have developed a new approach to thin-film solar cells using a nanometric germanium oxide layer, resulting in improved performance and device stability. The innovative design boosts power conversion efficiency by up to 4.81%.
Agrivoltaics systems can significantly augment quality of life for farmworkers by providing shelter from the sun, cooler drinking water, and reduced fatigue. Researchers found that these systems can reduce wet bulb globe temperature by up to 5.5 degrees Celsius, making them a crucial tool in protecting farmworkers from heat stress.
A study by MIT researchers examines two policy approaches to expanding the US electricity grid: one focusing on regions with more renewable energy sources and another creating more interconnections across the country. The study found that a geographically unbalanced grid buildout would be less expensive, while reducing carbon emissions...
A new study found that tin-perovskite solar cells have significantly lower ion density and degrade five times slower than lead-based cells. The tin material also exhibits excellent stability during operation, paving the way for developing innovative thin-film solar cells.
The SUN-DT project aims to drive the digital transition of tower concentrated solar power (CSP) plants in Europe. By leveraging AI-based calibration, predictive maintenance, and real-time optimization, the initiative seeks to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs for these facilities.
A new AI-based method optimizes the operation of solar power generation and battery storage systems, reducing imbalance penalties by approximately 47% compared to conventional control methods. The method maintains stable profits throughout the four seasons and can handle real-world uncertainties such as sudden weather changes and compl...
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed new simulation methods using machine learning to understand halide perovskites, a promising material for efficient solar cells. The study provides insights into the structure and behavior of formamidinium lead iodide, helping to address its instability issues.
A team of researchers developed a new manufacturing process using bio-based solvents to reduce the production cost of perovskite solar cells by half and decrease climate impact by over 80%. AI-based reverse engineering technology was used to identify optimal conditions for efficiency and sustainability.
Researchers at Aarhus University found that vertical solar panels can generate electricity without compromising crop yields, even with reduced shade. The system requires less land than separate installations and is better received by the public due to its innovative design.
A newly developed system recovers a valuable fertilizer from urine using solar energy, providing essential sanitation and reducing the need for expensive imported fertilizers. The prototype shows promise for powering irrigation in resource-limited regions and could be scaled to help farmers around the world.
A new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that increasing solar power generation in the US by 15% could lead to significant cuts in CO2 emissions. The researchers pinpointed regions where clean energy investments return the greatest climate dividends and demonstrated the value of coordinated clean energy efforts.
Researchers developed a protective coating called PDAI2 to shield perovskite solar cells from space damage. The coating helps the cells survive in harsh conditions, allowing for longer operation times and improved efficiency.
The developed three-phase EDS system uses a wind-powered rotational triboelectric nanogenerator to generate high voltage, achieving efficient dust removal and restoring solar panels' conversion efficiency. This technology reduces maintenance costs and can be applied across various environments.
Professor Kanatzidis has been awarded the 2025 Albert Einstein World Award of Science for his groundbreaking contributions to shaping the field of solar photovoltaic materials. His work has led to the development of high-performance, low-cost, and durable photovoltaic semiconductors.
A fully autonomous robotic system developed by MIT researchers can measure important material properties like photoconductivity, increasing the speed and precision of research. The system uses machine learning and robotics to analyze new semiconductors and optimize the development of more powerful solar panels.
Scientists at NUS demonstrate a perovskite-organic tandem solar cell with a certified world-record power conversion efficiency of 26.4%. The breakthrough is driven by a newly designed organic absorber that enhances near-infrared photon harvesting.
Researchers at Kyoto University have created a new artificial heterostructure device that mimics broken spatial and time-reversal symmetry, enabling new bulk photovoltaic effects. The device shows promise for next-generation solar cells with improved efficiency and multifunctionality.
The NIMS Award 2025 honors Prof. Tsutomu Miyasaka, Prof. Henry J. Snaith, and Prof. Nam-Gyu Park for their pioneering work on perovskite solar cells and the incorporation of a critical element that improved stability and efficiency. The award ceremony will take place at the Tsukuba International Congress Center on November 11.
A new study from Colorado State University reveals that photovoltaic (PV) arrays in grasslands can improve soil moisture levels and increase plant growth, particularly during dry years. The research found a 90% increase in grass production on the east side of panels compared to neighboring open sites.
Researchers from Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) have set a new temperature record for testing materials in high-pressure environments. The team successfully achieved unprecedented conditions of 1,150 degrees Celsius at 300 bar using a modified autoclave setup.
A new study reveals that incorporating CPMAC into perovskite solar cells enhances energy efficiency and stability, reducing defects in the electron transfer layer and improving performance.
Researchers from Politecnico di Milano developed a study analyzing agrivoltaics' potential to reduce global conflict over land use. The coexistence of photovoltaic panels and agricultural crops can help solve the pressure on arable land due to growing energy demand and food production needs.
A new study found that financial benefits, such as saving on utility payments and avoiding electricity rate hikes, are a key driver of US adults' willingness to consider installing rooftop or subscribing to community solar power. The study also revealed that most participants didn't understand what community solar is and had not looked...
A new smart insole system monitors how people walk in real time to improve posture and provide early warnings for conditions like plantar fasciitis and Parkinson’s disease. The system offers high-resolution spatial sensing, self-powering capability, and combines with machine learning algorithms.
A dynamic framework to measure market power in wholesale electricity markets has been developed by researchers, accounting for start-up costs and other unit-level operating constraints. The study found that rooftop solar penetration increases led to sizable boosts in fossil fuel plant profitability, as competition softened at sunset.
Researchers have developed nanomats that can absorb light energy to break down harmful pollutants in air and water. These lightweight blankets can be reused multiple times and are environmentally friendly, offering a promising solution for clean drinking water production.
A new analysis of social media posts reveals that public support for solar energy remains high, but has become increasingly polarized. The study found that attitudes toward solar energy are largely being driven by politics, with significant differences in support across regions and states.
Researchers have discovered a way to trap iodine in perovskite solar cells using alumina nanoparticles, enhancing lifespan and stability. The modified solar cells maintained high performance for over two months under extreme conditions.
Researchers have developed a battery that can harness ambient gamma radiation to produce strong electric outputs, enabling potential applications in space exploration and sensors. The prototype demonstrated a peak power output of 288 nanowatts using cesium-137 and 1.5 microwatts with cobalt-60.
Researchers are developing in-situ optical analysis technology to improve quality control and scalability of perovskite solar film production. The goal is to enable widespread rooftop installations, estimated to be worth £250bn in the UK alone.
The partnership aims to develop AI-driven tools to improve investment decisions, enhance system stability through intelligent forecasting, and deploy smart optimisation algorithms. The collaboration seeks to address key challenges in smart energy storage by integrating Trinasolar's expertise with NTU's leading research.
Researchers from Indian Institute of Technology developed bifacial perovskite solar cells with a novel NiO/Ag/NiO transparent electrode, achieving high efficiency, durability, and infrared transparency. The cells demonstrated impressive power conversion efficiencies and high bifaciality factors.
Researchers propose a new local electricity market to harness the power of homeowners' grid-edge devices in case of outages or attacks. Devices like solar panels and electric vehicles can pump power into the grid or rebalance consumption.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new type of back-contact solar cell design using perovskite material and tiny grooves in plastic film. The technology enables scalable, low-cost manufacturing and avoids expensive rare earth metals, making it sustainable and affordable.
A new study improves solar power forecasts by applying machine learning and post-processing techniques to weather models, revealing the time of day as a crucial factor for accuracy. The research suggests that including hourly data in algorithms can significantly enhance forecasting results.
A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that hitting Europe's 2030 renewable energy targets could reduce electricity price volatility by an average of 20% across 29 European countries. This would lead to significant reductions in price spikes, with the UK and Ireland expected to benefit the most.
A new optimization model improves microgrid operation by reducing computational burden and introducing replanning, ensuring stable power supply under uncertain conditions. This approach boosts energy efficiency, minimizes waste, and supports the transition to sustainable energy.
New research from Colorado State University finds that wildfire smoke has a modest impact on long-term solar power generation activity in the US. The study, published in Nature Communications, shows that power generated from photovoltaics remained relatively stable even in extreme fire seasons, with losses averaging around 5%.
A study by Professor Carlos Coimbra examines the thermal balances between solar farm panels and desert environments, revealing potential impacts on local habitats. The emerging field of energy meteorology aims to better understand weather effects on power generation and distribution systems.