New approach to improve MPPT in partially shaded PV systems operating at high temperatures
The novel methodology is reportedly able to track global maximum power point and reduce power losses in partially shaded PV systems by up to 33%. It uses a backstepping controller (BSC) algorithm to adjust the pulse width modulation signal and a genetic algorithm to compute the BSC gains to achieve an optimal PV system outcome.
New tech to remanufacture recycled perovskite solar cells
An international research team has developed a novel way to remanufacture fully encapsulated perovskite solar cells after recycling. The researchers say the devices can achieve 88% of the original efficiency of the products.
Triple-junction perovskite–perovskite–silicon solar cell achieves record-breaking efficiency of 24.4%
Developed by scientists in Germany, the triple-junction cell is based on a perovskite top cell with an energy bandgap of 1.84 eV, a perovskite middle cell with bandgap of 1.52 eV, and a silicon bottom cell with a bandgap of 1.1 eV. The device achieved an open-circuit voltage of 2.84 V, a short-circuit current of 11.6 mA cm–2, and a fill factor of 74%.
Tata Chemicals, IITB-Monash join hands for perovskites research
Tata Chemicals Ltd has collaborated with IITB-Monash Research Academy for research on the transformative potential of perovskite materials in the field of clean energy.
Green hydrogen, power generation tech based on compressed air storage, solid-oxide electrolysis cells
Scientists in Korea have developed a compressed air storage system that can be used as a combined cooling, heat, and power system and provide heat and power to solid-oxide electrolysis cells for hydrogen generation. It showed an overall roundtrip efficiency of 121.2% and over-unity efficiencies in the range of 100% to 120%.
Canada’s SPARQ Systems enters PV microinverters partnership with Jio
Canada-based microinverter company SPARQ Systems has entered into a partnership agreement with JioThings, a fully owned subsidiary of Jio Platforms Ltd. of Reliance Industries, to supply the Indian conglomerate with PV microinverters.
Subsea pumped hydro for utility scale storage at deepwater
Researchers in Norway have investigated the technical potential of implementing subsea pumped hydro storage at water depth not exceeding 2,000 m. They also identified potential locations for these storage systems based on energy density.
Lithos technology reduces water use in lithium extraction
Lithos applied for a $30 million DOE grant, which will help increase the facility’s capacity to sustainably process lithium hydroxide.
New CIGS solar cell design with antimony trisulfide promises 31.15% efficiency
The novel solar cell uses antimony trisulfide (Sb2S3) as the back surface field (BSF) layer. According to its creators, this layer can be included in conventional CIGS solar cells to improve their efficiency and reduce the absorber material’s cost.
Photovoltaics for wastewater disinfection
Researchers in Spain have developed a new system that simultaneously produces PV power and disinfects wastewater.
