Articles tagged with Photovoltaics
Scientists have achieved control over the atomic structure of perovskites, creating a finely tuned energy sandwich that could transform how solar cells, LEDs, and lasers are made. The new method enables precise control over the thickness of films and interaction between layers, paving the way for scalable and high-performance devices.
Researchers at MIT have developed a nearly impermeable polymer film that could protect solar panels and infrastructure from corrosion. The film, made using a solution-phase polymerization reaction, completely repels nitrogen and other gases, outperforming existing polymers.
A novel coating at the interface between perovskite and top contact layer boosts efficiency to almost 27% and increases stability by 2,000 hours under standard illumination. The fluorinated compound forms a protective barrier, reducing defects and losses.
Scientists have developed a novel 'double molecular bridge' strategy to enhance charge transport in perovskite solar cells, leading to improved efficiency and reduced nonradiative losses. This breakthrough confirms the importance of interfaces in perovskite photovoltaics and opens up new avenues for interface engineering.
Two-dimensional materials are being explored for their potential to revolutionize photovoltaics, with a focus on improving efficiency and stability. The review highlights the innovative design and features of these materials, as well as their promising applications in next-generation photovoltaic technologies.
Researchers at PolyU developed an innovative parameter to evaluate photoactive materials for ST-OPVs, advancing high-performance devices with low-cost production and environmental sustainability. Record light utilisation efficiency of 6.05% was achieved in semi-transparent solar cells.
Researchers at Yunnan University developed a strategy to improve the performance of printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells by using liquid gallium nanodroplets as a heteroepitaxial template. The study achieved over 20% efficiency and exceptional stability, paving the way for scalable printing of high-performance solar cells.
A University of Sydney-led team has created the largest and most efficient triple-junction perovskite-perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell reported, demonstrating high efficiency and durability. The 16 cm² cell achieved an independently certified steady-state power conversion efficiency of 23.3 percent.
A new spinel-type sulfide semiconductor, (Zn,Mg)Sc2S4, has been developed by researchers at Science Tokyo. The material can be chemically tuned to switch between n-type and p-type conduction, making it suitable for pn homojunction devices in next-generation LEDs and solar cells.
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.
A tiny defect in perovskite solar cells could lead to permanent degradation and failure, as a small amount of reverse bias causes the materials to heat up and 'melt'. Researchers have used advanced imaging techniques to study the defects and understand how they affect device behavior.
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.
Researchers achieved excellent passivation of perovskite top cells on textured silicon surfaces, leading to improved efficiency and conductivity. The breakthrough enhances understanding of processes occurring in top cells and paves the way for further innovation in tandem solar cell development.
Researchers are testing how crops grow between rows of solar panels on a farm in New York state. The team is growing various crops, including strawberries, raspberries, and soybeans, with promising early results.
A study published in the journal Joule estimates that space-based solar power could reduce Earth-based renewable energy costs by 7-15% and offset up to 80% of wind and solar power by 2050. The heliostat design, with higher potential for continuous solar energy capture, would outperform wind and solar power.
A new study reveals that households with solar panels can increase their returns by selling surplus power directly to their neighbours through peer-to-peer energy sharing. This approach helps stabilize the electricity grid and negotiates a better price for households compared to traditional grid export arrangements.
Researchers developed a hybrid-interlocked self-assembled monolayer strategy to enhance device stability in perovskite indoor photovoltaics. The optimized devices achieved record indoor power conversion efficiency of 42.01% and projected T90 lifetime approaching 6000 hours.
Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a new type of solar thermoelectric generator that can harness thermal energy in addition to sunlight. The device is 15 times more efficient than current state-of-the-art devices, making it a promising source of renewable energy.
Researchers at University College London developed durable new solar cells capable of efficiently harvesting energy from indoor light. The team successfully reduced defects in the perovskite material, increasing efficiency and durability, paving the way for electronics powered by ambient light.
Researchers have discovered a phenothiazine-based self-assembled monolayer that reduces losses in tin perovskite solar cells, achieving an efficiency of 8.2%. This breakthrough paves the way for further improvements to pure tin perovskite tandem solar cells.
A Japanese study demonstrates that dual-axis sun-tracking agrivoltaic systems can produce competitive solar power while maintaining high-quality rice yields. The system achieved 75-85% rice yield improvements compared to traditional paddies, and generated nearly 44,000 kWh of electricity annually.
Researchers developed a silane coupling agent strategy that improves interfacial adhesion and charge extraction in wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells. This approach reduces defects and non-radiative recombination, leading to high efficiency and stability.
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.
Researchers developed a strategy to control high-concentration precursor crystallization, enabling the formation of thick, high-quality perovskite films that minimize photon loss. The optimized bifacial solar cells achieved record-breaking power conversion efficiency and outstanding operational stability.
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.
The Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) has developed a proposal for the
The University of Ottawa's SUNLAB has developed a simulation model for multi-junction photonic power converters, which enable the conversion of laser light into electrical power with higher efficiencies and voltages. This technology could lead to more reliable telecommunication networks, reduce costs by enhancing systems performance, a...
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.
Researchers have developed a new high-performance image sensor that incorporates a built-in solar cell structure using pinned-surface double-junction photodiodes. This design improves light sensitivity and reduces image lag, making it suitable for applications such as AI smart robot vision chips.
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 developed a composite material that enhances solar cell performance, raising power output and lifespan while reducing heat absorption and electricity consumption. The passive cooling technology, tested in various environments, showed excellent results with increased power output by 12.9% and lifespan by over 200%.
Scientists have designed human-made molecules that self-assemble into stacked rings, allowing charge and energy to circulate freely, echoing photosynthesis. This breakthrough could lead to improved energy generation and advanced electronics.
A study by Tohoku University found that combining rooftop solar panels with electric vehicles as batteries can supply 85% of Japan's electricity demand and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 87%. The 'PV + EV' system could lower energy costs by 33% by 2030, providing a promising pathway for Japan to achieve carbon neutrality.
University of Missouri scientists have developed an ice lithography technique that etches small patterns onto fragile biological surfaces without damaging them. The method uses frozen ethanol to protect the surface and apply precise patterns.
A new process has been developed to extend the lifetime of perovskite solar cells, allowing them to maintain their efficiency for longer periods. The study found that incorporating formamidinium cations into methylammonium-based perovskites increased their durability and stability.
Researchers introduce a redox energy barrier management approach to boost tin-lead perovskite solar cell performance. The innovation uses an organometallic complex to protect Sn2+ from oxidation and passivate defects.
A new study reveals Saharan dust reduces photovoltaic electricity generation across Europe and challenges existing forecasting models. The researchers recommend integrating near-real-time dust load data into forecasting models to improve reliability.
Researchers have developed a single-layer antireflective coating using polycrystalline silicon nanostructures that sharply reduces sunlight reflection across a wide range of wavelengths and angles. The coating achieves unprecedented results for a single-layer design, setting a new standard for solar cells.
Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have developed a high-precision methodology to measure rooftop energy potential in Vitoria-Gasteiz. The study found that 50% of rooftops are viable for solar energy generation, enabling 38% of annual electricity consumption to be produced
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.
Researchers developed an eco-friendly method for fabricating perovskite solar cells using a fluoride additive in a water-based solution. This approach achieves high power conversion efficiencies while reducing environmental and health risks.
The PV Doctor uses AI-driven analytics to monitor and optimize solar PV system performance. It detects root causes of underperformance and provides actionable solutions to prevent energy losses and protect long-term asset value.
Researchers created solar cells using simulated Moon dust, converting sunlight into energy efficiently and withstanding radiation damage. The new panels produced up to 100 times more energy than traditional solar panels, cutting launch mass by 99.4% and transport costs by 99%.
Researchers at EPFL have developed a method to stabilize wide-bandgap perovskites using lattice strain, reducing energy losses and improving stability. This approach enables the incorporation of rubidium ions into the structure, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced photovoltage loss.
Experts from 22 research institutes evaluate optical technologies in photovoltaics to increase efficiency and enable new applications. Coloured solar modules for facades are identified as a promising innovation.
The California Solar Canal Initiative brings together seven leading research universities to identify optimal locations for generating renewable energy and conserving land statewide. By covering large sections of the state's canal network with solar panels, researchers aim to conserve water, reduce air pollution and generate clean energy.
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.
Research proposes a new methodology for dynamically optimizing solar panel positioning based on the light needs of crops. Advanced ray tracing techniques are used to evaluate the distribution of solar radiation, enabling the automation of design optimization of agrivoltaic systems.
Experts discuss scientific and technological challenges in the energy transition, including solar technologies, hydrogen, batteries, grid management, and future energy sources. The joint paper recommends innovations leading to next-gen photovoltaic technology, green hydrogen production, and AI-powered grid management.
New University of Sheffield research reveals agrivoltaics can meet UK electricity demand four times over, boosting crop yields and conserving water. Regions identified for effective deployment include Cambridgeshire, Essex, Lincolnshire, and the broader East and South East of England.
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.
Research team develops a new design strategy to enhance efficiency, stability, and stretchability of polymer solar cells. The discovery uses a three-dimensional aromatic-core tethered tetrameric acceptor, achieving significant improvements in performance and durability.
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.
A research team at POSTECH developed a synthesis method that precisely controls the size and shape of perovskite nanocrystals using liquid crystalline antisolvents. The method produces uniformly sized particles without additional purification processes, accelerating commercialization of optoelectronic devices.
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.
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.
Scientists at Linköping University have created a sustainable recycling process for perovskite solar cells, allowing all parts to be reused without hazardous solvents. The recycled cell retains the same efficiency as the original, paving the way for efficient energy harvesting and reduced e-waste.
A recent study published in One Ecosystem reveals that vegetation succession occurs in solar parks, supporting a wide range of biodiversity. The research suggests that mowing alone is insufficient to manage woody plants, highlighting the need for alternative construction methods and consulting experts in dynamic vegetation processes.