Roadmap to achieve CIGS solar modules with efficiencies above 20%
Japanese scientists have described the steps that need to be taken to improve the average efficiency of CIGS solar modules, from around 18.5% at present to more than 20%. They presented all of the critical technical factors that are currently holding the tech back from broader market adoption.
US battery maker unveils solid-state storage systems for residential applications
Amptricity has emerged from stealth mode with plans to manufacture solid-state batteries for residential and commercial installations.
Hydrogen-producing rooftop solar panels nearing commercialization
KU Leuven researchers have developed rooftop panels that capture both solar power and water from the air. Like traditional PV modules, hydrogen panels are also connected, but via gas tubes instead of electric cables. The researchers are now preparing to bring the tech to the mass market via a spinoff company.
GEAPP, ISA sign $10 million grant agreement to boost solar deployment
The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) has signed a $10 million grant agreement with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to boost the deployment of solar energy in developing countries.
India saved $4.2 billion in fossil fuel costs due to solar generation in H1
A new report says solar generation helped seven Asian countries avoid $34 billion in fossil fuel costs in the first half of 2022. The majority of these savings were in China ($21 billion). Japan avoided $5.6 billion in fossil fuel costs and India saved $4.2 billion.
Mahindra & Mahindra forms a new solar subsidiary
Mahindra & Mahindra has incorporated Emergent Solren as a wholly-owned subsidiary of its arm Mahindra Holdings.
State Bank of India signs €150 million solar loan agreement with Germany’s KfW
The State Bank of India (SBI) has signed the agreement with KfW Development Bank for availing a second low-interest loan of €150 million. It will use the amount to finance solar farms with outputs between 50 and 250 MW.
Most new solar panels retain 80% production after 30 years
A five-year Sandia Labs study on solar module degradation shows that 13 out of 23 tested module types have effective lifetimes exceeding 30 years.
India needs $300 billion to meet 2030 target of 500 GW non-fossil energy capacity
A new report by Arthur D. Little presents an integrated blueprint for India to achieve its true potential in the power sector with a focus on renewables.
Photovoltaic-thermal solar tiles
Germany’s Paxos is currently testing the solar tile in a testing facility connected to an air heat pump. The panel can provide heat and electricity at the same time, while also improving the heat pump’s coefficient of performance by around 25%.
