Cooling down solar modules with cotton wicks immersed in water
The novel technique consists of attaching cotton wicks immersed in the water (CWIWs) to the backside photovoltaic module. The water is supplied to cotton wicks from top to bottom by gravity which the scientists said helps the effective absorption of cotton and reduces water consumption.
Solar panel sizes continue to get larger and improve LCOE, says TrendForce report
A new report from the Taiwanese market research company shows growth in the production of modules over 600 W and increased format size. Cells and wafers are getting larger as well.
New tech to produce hydrogen from tap water
A Spanish scientist has developed a system that reportedly produces hydrogen on-site without expensive electrolysis.
Comparing performance of transparent solar windows to traditional windows
The results of the study by Wells Fargo Foundation and NREL initiative showed that PV-coated windows can appreciably lower the solar heat gain coefficient.
Portable flexible PV systems for off-grid, residential applications
US startup New Use Energy Solutions has launched a new line of portable PV systems built with a module technology relying on Merlin Solar’s panels. The modules are assembled in the system via a custom vinyl tarp.
Industrial process for ‘mobile’ solar module recycling
German company Flaxres has developed an industrial process to recycle PV modules, and has begun operating a pilot facility at its new site where 10 tons of solar modules can be recycled daily. Flaxres plans to make equipment based on this facility available to international customers.
Compressed air storage vs. lead-acid batteries
Researchers in the United Arab Emirates have compared the performance of compressed air storage and lead-acid batteries in terms of energy stored per cubic meter, costs, and payback period. They found the former has a considerably lower Capex and a payback time of only two years.
There’s big money in recycling materials from solar panels
Recycling solar panels keeps them out of landfills, but also provides much-needed raw materials with Rystad Energy projecting a value approaching $80 billion by 2050.
Novel method to turn existing solar parks into agrivoltaic facilities
An international research team has developed a new methodology to increase levels of pollination at ground-mounted solar plants. It involves the development of new vegetated land cover below and around solar parks.
Solar power costs continued to fall in 2021, despite rising panel prices
The average global price of solar kilowatt-hours fell 13% on 2020’s prices, as around two-thirds of the renewables capacity installed last year was cheaper than the lowest-cost fossil fuel alternative.
