Technology

A research group in Ghana has conducted a series of tests to assess the performance of polycrystalline solar modules in PV systems operating in their home country for at least 5 years. They found that the vast majority of the panels may ‘fail’ before 20 years in operation under outdoor conditions.

An Italian research group has assessed the advantages of combining solar power generation in greenhouses with vertical farming. The scientists claim this new approach offers better land use while increasing agricultural yield.

Chinese manufacturer Akcome has released a new line of heterojunction solar panels with a nominal power capacity ranging between 710 W and 730 W and a conversion efficiency of 22.80% to 23.50%.

Scientists in Belgium are exploring the potential of recycled silicon in solar modules at the end of their life cycle for reuse in low-cost, higher-energy-density storage technologies. They claim EV batteries using this silicon may allow faster recharging and travel longer distances on a single charge.

Bengaluru-based Hind High Vacuum (HHV) has designed and built a directional solidification (DSS) furnace to produce polycrystalline silicon ingots in the solar industry.

Green hydrogen holds the potential to decarbonize critical sectors and provide clean energy solutions. However, it accounts for less than 1% of global hydrogen production. Targeted interventions are required to facilitate a smooth transition toward a green hydrogen economy.

Industry body India Hydrogen Alliance has submitted a plan to the government to build five large national green hydrogen corporations with a collective enterprise value of $5 billion by 2030. The plan shows public finance support, in the form of CAPEX and offtake incentives for National Green H2 Hubs, is crucial for creating financially viable green hydrogen infrastructure, especially in the initial 2024-30 period.

A research group from Ireland developed a PVT system consisting of a 170 W photovoltaic panel connected to a water tank placed at the backside of the PV module itself. The PVT module is able to considerably reduce the temperature of the PV unit while producing hot water for residential use.

Bangladesh has introduced tax exemptions to reduce water production costs and promote the use of solar power in 19 coastal districts. This initiative comes in response to grid electricity shortages caused by a decline in coal and fuel imports. The goal is to enhance reliance on solar-powered water desalination in these areas.

US-based Salgenx says it has successfully integrated ultracapacitors with its saltwater redox flow batteries, resulting in significantly better power response and system performance.