Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Air pollution casts shadow over solar energy production

A new study estimates that air pollution and dust are cutting global solar energy production by more than 25% in certain parts of the world, with China, India, and the Arabian Peninsula being the hardest hit. The regions experiencing heavy losses are also those investing the most in solar energy installations.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 26, 2017

'Magic' alloy could spur next generation of solar cells

Researchers at University of Michigan develop cost-effective material to capture near-infrared light in solar cells, making concentrator photovoltaics more efficient and practical for large-scale electricity generation. The new alloy is significantly less expensive than previous formulations and enables easier manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 15, 2017

New breakthrough in battery charging technology

A new class of monolithically integrated, portable PV-battery systems has been developed using high-efficiency silicon solar cells and printed solid-state lithium-ion batteries. The device can power electric devices under sunlight or in the absence of light, offering exceptional photo-electrochemical performance and design compactness.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateApr 24, 2017

Financialization's negative effect on the American solar industry

A new study reveals that financialization in the US impaired its emerging solar industry, while Japan's photovoltaics manufacturers thrived. This case study highlights the conflicting relationship between finance and production, and calls for policies that bring productive and financial capital together to support low-carbon industries.

A big nano boost for solar cells

Researchers have developed a new nano-sized semiconductor that concentrates visible light energy, increasing the efficiency of solar cells. This breakthrough doubles current efficiencies to at least 40%, offering benefits in energy efficiency and design.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 18, 2017

The beating heart of solar energy

Researchers found that small solar cells under the skin can generate enough power to fully charge pacemakers or extend their lifespan. This technology has the potential to reduce device replacements and size, saving patients discomfort and stress.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 3, 2017

Going green with nanotechnology

Researchers have developed environmentally friendly organic solar cells using nanomaterials, increasing efficiency and reducing toxic substances. Additionally, hybrid capacitors with enhanced storage capacity and faster charging capabilities have been created using nano-diamond composites, paving the way for more efficient energy stores.

Throwing new light on printed organic solar cells

Scientists at the University of Surrey achieved record power conversion efficiencies for large area organic solar cells, outperforming traditional inorganic solar cells. The innovative cells can be printed in different colors and shapes, making them ideal for powering devices on-the-go, such as Internet of Things applications.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·DateNov 30, 2016

New way to make low-cost solar cell technology

Researchers at Australian National University have developed a new way to fabricate high-efficiency semi-transparent perovskite solar cells, which can improve the performance of conventional silicon solar cells. The new fabrication method could increase power output by up to 25% and achieve efficiencies of up to 30%.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateNov 14, 2016

Toward 'greener,' inexpensive solar cells

Scientists have made a significant advance toward more practical, environmentally friendly solar cells using inexpensive halide perovskite materials. The new cells have a power conversion efficiency of 15 percent and contain 60% less lead than traditional cells, representing a major step towards sustainable energy solutions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 7, 2016

New advances in solar cell technology

Researchers at OIST have made significant breakthroughs in perovskite solar cells, improving efficiency, stability, and scalability. New post-annealing treatments and manufacturing methods have increased conversion efficiency to 18.4%, while discovering new decomposition products has led to the development of more stable materials.