Articles tagged with Photovoltaics
A team of researchers from the University of Kansas has discovered a microscopic mechanism that explains why a new class of organic semiconductors outperforms others. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient solar cells and photocatalysts for producing solar fuels, revolutionizing the clean energy sector.
A new study finds that cool roofs are the most effective way to cool cities like London, with a potential reduction of 1.2-2 degrees C in outdoor temperatures. In contrast, green roofs and street-level vegetation have negligible net cooling effects.
Physicists have developed a new analytical model that sheds light on how thin-film solar cells achieve optimal efficiency. The study reveals a critical balance between collecting electricity and minimizing losses due to recombination.
Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough in synthesizing formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3) perovskite solar cells into ultrastable, high-quality photovoltaic films. The overall efficiency of the resulting FAPbI3 solar cells decreased by less than 3% over 1,000 hours of operation.
Researchers are developing solutions to recycle solar panels and recover strategic metals like silver and copper, reducing waste and creating jobs.
Researchers at WVU are exploring the potential of solar panels to generate energy on grazing lands, diversifying farmers' income streams and promoting more sustainable practices. The study aims to understand how dual-use solar systems impact soil health and animal performance.
A new computer vision technique developed by MIT engineers significantly speeds up the characterization of newly synthesized electronic materials. The technique automatically analyzes images of printed semiconducting samples and quickly estimates two key electronic properties: band gap and stability.
Researchers developed an innovative scheduling system for electric vehicles that enhances power grid efficiency by synchronizing charging with peak solar energy production times. The system reduces energy loss, prevents power outages, and minimizes the impact of EV charging on the grid.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new thermophotovoltaic cell that can recover significantly more energy from heat batteries, increasing efficiency to 44%. The device uses air bridges to trap photons with the right energies, allowing for the recycling of useless photons and improving overall performance.
A team at the University of Córdoba has developed a methodology that defines cultivable space between two-axis photovoltaic modules for agrivoltaic production. The model reveals 74% of land is cultivable by crops less than 1.4m high, offering a sustainable energy and agricultural solution.
Researchers at Universität Leipzig have found a way to drive electric currents with light even when the material has minimal absorption. This breakthrough reveals the properties of 'Floquet Fermi liquid' states, which can display spectacular properties like superconductivity.
A new study found that affordable solar panels are being used in rural Ethiopian villages, offering a healthy alternative to kerosene lamps and supporting education. However, uncertified panels break easily and lack maintenance support, creating environmental pollution.
Researchers at Linképing University have developed a digital display screen where LEDs react to touch, light, fingerprints, and the user's pulse, among other things. The screen can also be charged through the screen due to its ability to act as solar cells.
Researchers from Lehigh University have developed a material that promises over 190% quantum efficiency in solar cells, exceeding the theoretical limit for silicon-based materials. The material's 'intermediate band states' enable efficient absorption of sunlight and production of charge carriers.
A Washington State University-led study found that widespread, extreme temperature events can capture greater solar radiation and higher wind speeds to help power grids. This analysis suggests using more renewable energy at these times could reduce strain on grids during increased energy demand.
A tandem approach for better solar cells involves combining perovskite-based photovoltaics with traditional silicon to minimize losses and increase efficiency. The technology has shown promise in laboratory settings but faces significant practical challenges, including reliability and scalability issues.
Researchers have developed an organic photovoltaic film that is both waterproof and flexible, enabling a solar cell to be used on clothes without compromising performance. The breakthrough film retained up to 96% of its initial performance after being submerged in water or stretched beyond its limit.
Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology developed a new material for perovskite solar cells, which exhibits better power conversion efficiencies and operational stability. The material, synthesised through polymerisation, can be used in both regular and inverted architecture solar cells.
Researchers have developed a new method to visualize the quantum mechanical wave function of excitons in organic semiconductors. This understanding is essential for developing more efficient materials with organic semiconductors. The technique, known as photoemission exciton tomography, provides insights into the behavior of excitons i...
A comparative study assesses options for mass production of perovskite solar cells, revealing the potential of vacuum-based processes. Vacuum vapor-phase deposition outperforms solvent-based manufacturing in terms of energy costs and material efficiency.
A Dartmouth Engineering-led study discovered a new high-performance solar absorber material that is stable and earth-abundant. The researchers used a unique high-throughput computational screening method to evaluate approximately 40,000 candidate materials, leading to the discovery of the Zintl-phosphide BaCd2P2.
A team of UCF researchers has received a $1.5 million grant from the US Department of Energy to develop a novel metallization process for solar cells. The goal is to increase efficiency and lower production costs, making solar energy more accessible.
Scientists created a method to study variations in power output from solar PV plants over time, accounting for distinct power fluctuations across different geographical areas. The grid integration challenge arises when including variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar into the power grid.
A team of researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology has developed an innovative Bayesian optimization scheme to optimize the performance of silicon heterojunction solar cells. The approach, known as constrained BO, combines three prediction models to determine optimal deposition conditions for catalytic chemic...
The National University of Singapore (NUS) team engineered a new cyanate-integrated perovskite solar cell that achieves a certified world-record power conversion efficiency of 27.1%, surpassing other multi-junction solar cells. The triple-junction perovskite/Si tandem solar cell remains stable and efficient even after extended testing.
A team of researchers from Pusan National University developed a method to enhance the stability of perovskite solar cells using crown ether B18C6. This approach resulted in improved power conversion efficiency and resistance to moisture, addressing key issues such as lead leakage and degradation due to environmental factors. The study...
Researchers at UNIST have developed a scalable and efficient photoelectrode module for green hydrogen production, overcoming challenges of efficiency, stability, and scalability. The team's innovative approach achieved unprecedented efficiency, durability, and scalability in producing green hydrogen using solar energy.
A team led by Prof. Wolf Gero Schmidt used Hawk supercomputer to study how strategic impurities in solar cells can improve performance. They discovered that certain defects can improve exciton transfer, leading to more energy captured. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and climate-friendly energy production.
Researchers at Uppsala University and First Solar European Technology Center have achieved a world record of 23.64 per cent efficiency in CIGS solar cells, surpassing the previous record of 23.35 per cent. The study demonstrates that CIGS thin-film technology is a competitive alternative as a stand-alone solar cell.
Scientists at Nagoya University have created a new material based on fullerene indanones (FIDO) to enhance the durability of next-generation solar cells. The new material is more efficient, stable, and lightweight than conventional silicon solar cells, making it suitable for vertical installations.
A new instrument called CLIMAT was developed by HZB physicist Dr Artem Musiienko to characterise semiconductors. It measures 14 parameters of transport properties in a single measurement, including mobility, diffusion lengths and lifetime, for positive and negative charge carriers.
A groundbreaking research breakthrough has led to the development of the world's most efficient quantum dot (QD) solar cell, retaining its efficiency even after long-term storage. The newly-developed organic PQD solar cells exhibit both high efficiency and stability simultaneously.
Researchers developed a wireless device powered by light that can be implanted to regulate cardiovascular or neural activity in the body. The ultralight membrane is thinner than a human hair and contains no moving parts, offering a minimally invasive surgery alternative.
Researchers have developed a novel 'nano active control platform' to control excitons and trions, providing valuable insights into the optical properties of two-dimensional semiconductors. The breakthrough discovery enables real-time analysis of nano-light properties with exceptional spatial resolution.
Physicists at Paderborn University have developed a new solar cell design using tetracene, which significantly increases efficiency. The introduction of defects in the organic layer accelerates exciton transfer to silicon, reducing energy losses and increasing overall yield of usable energy.
A new research proposes a hemispherical shell shape to optimize organic photovoltaic cells, achieving a 66% increase in light absorption and improved angular coverage. The study presents advanced computational analysis, revealing the remarkable capabilities of this innovative design.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered how proteins deform to create efficient transport routes for electrons, powered by solar energy. This finding could lead to more efficient solar cells and batteries.
Scientists use a special microscope to break up the bond between electrons and holes in semiconductors, revealing that hole interactions determine charge transfer processes. The findings have implications for future computer and photovoltaic technologies.
A new universal figure-of-merit for thermophotovoltaic (TPV) devices has been introduced to assess performance and balance power density and efficiency. This metric enables the classification of previously reported experimental results, providing a clear picture of TPV device overall performance.
Researchers developed a chemically protective cathode interlayer using amine-functionalized perylene diimide, which stabilizes perovskite solar cells. The novel solution-processed PDINN cathode interlayer achieved impressive performance with over 81% retention and record-high bias-free solar hydrogen production rate.
Researchers at KAUST Solar Center have developed a roadmap for commercializing perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells, which combine efficient light absorption and long-term stability. The technology has the potential to meet Saudi Arabia's solar targets and exceed $10 billion in market value within a decade.
Researchers at PPPL developed a new theoretical model explaining the process of making black silicon using fluorine gas. The model precisely explains how fluorine breaks certain bonds in silicon, resulting in a rough surface that traps more light, ideal for solar cells.
The report highlights key applications and pathways to commercialization for emerging PV technologies, including new materials and device concepts. It also discusses strategies to exceed current limits in solar PV energy conversion and challenges facing efforts to scale up globally.
Researchers at NREL found a correlation between electric vehicle ownership and the adoption of solar panels, with EV owners more likely to invest in photovoltaics. The study suggests that the two technologies have complementary nature, playing a pivotal role in energy systems resiliency.
A KAIST research team developed a new conductive polymer material that achieved both high electrical performance and elasticity, introducing the world’s highest-performing stretchable organic solar cell. The team built a device that can be stretched up to 40% during operation, demonstrating its applicability for wearable devices.
A novel transparent spectral converter, GdPO4-GC:Eu3+/Pr3+, absorbs UV photons and re-emits them as visible light, increasing photovoltaic devices' conversion efficiency. This technology shields PCs from UV damage and enhances their sensitivity to UV photons.
Researchers at Nagoya University used AI to analyze image data of polycrystalline silicon and discovered staircase-like structures that cause dislocations during crystal growth. The study sheds light on the formation of dislocations in polycrystalline materials, which can affect electrical conduction and overall performance.
EtaVolt's innovative technology rejuvenates old solar cells with intense sunlight, restoring performance and protecting against light and heat damage. This game-changing solution extends the operational lifespan of solar panels, reducing energy loss and e-waste.
Researchers propose optimising campus solar PV system to support over 200 electric vehicles with free or nominal charging facilities. This could reduce annual electricity costs by more than 9% while helping lower peak power demand by at least 12%.
Scientists at Linköping University have created stable and environmentally friendly organic solar cells by incorporating untreated kraft lignin into the electron transport layer. This innovation improves the overall efficiency and reliability of organic solar cells, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Researchers have developed a new type of photovoltaic cell with significant advantages over conventional solar technologies, reducing shadowing by 95% and potentially lowering energy production costs. The breakthrough paves the way for miniaturization in electronic devices and has potential applications in solar cells, space exploratio...
Photovoltaic fields can mitigate climate change faster than afforestation by 50 times in semiarid land, while still offering benefits in humid lands. Forests provide additional ecosystem and social services beyond climate regulation.
Northwestern University researchers have created a new perovskite solar cell that achieves a National Renewable Energy Lab certified efficiency of 25.1%, surpassing earlier records. The breakthrough is made possible by a combination of two molecules, one addressing surface recombination and the other disrupting interface recombination.
Researchers developed a novel polycrystalline silicon tunnelling recombination layer that significantly enhances the efficiency of perovskite/tunnel oxide passivating contact tandem solar cells, achieving a remarkable 29.2% photoelectric conversion rate and high stability.
Researchers at NC State University developed an autonomous system called SmartDope to synthesize 'best-in-class' materials for specific applications in hours or days. It uses a self-driving lab to manipulate variables, characterize optical properties, and update its understanding of the synthesis chemistry through machine learning.
Researchers developed indoor solar panels to power smart home devices, identifying efficient PV materials and minimizing heat production. Gallium indium phosphide shows promise but is expensive, while perovskite minerals and organic films offer a cost-effective solution.
A UNIGE team has developed a super-model to simulate the spread of three green technologies in Swiss municipalities by 2050. The results show that Switzerland is unlikely to achieve zero net carbon emissions by 2050 without significant policy changes, highlighting the need for increased efforts and updated policies.
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology have developed organic solar cells with record efficiencies and discovered a link between molecular structure and outdoor stability. The study found that fluorine-bearing functional end groups and long hydrocarbon side-chains enhance outdoor stability, protecting the cells...
Researchers estimate that 5% of Europe's freestanding single-family homes could become economically self-sufficient in 2050. While some regions have high potential for self-sufficiency, becoming fully off-grid is not the most economic choice due to higher costs.
Researchers from Chinese Academy of Sciences propose homogenizing strategy to fabricate perovskite films for solar cells. The process increases conversion efficiency to 26.1%, tying the existing record. The method uses an additive to make up for difference in crystallization and phase transition rates, resulting in long-term stability.