As certified by Fraunhofer ISE CalLab, researchers have obtained the record-breaking efficiency of 22.1% on nanostructured silicon solar cells. Continue reading… “Record for black silicon solar cell efficiency now 22.1%”
New transparent solar cells can be used on windows, smartphone screens to produce solar energy
Transparent solar cell.
Developed by researchers in Michigan State University, a new material, called a transparent luminescent solar concentrator, can be used to cover anything that has a flat, clear surface. Transparent solar cell technology has been attempted before, but the energy the cells produced was poor and the materials they were made out of were highly colored.
‘Blackest’ solar cell ever absorbs 99.7% of all light
Scientists create blackest silicon solar cell.
Scientists at Natcore Technology have created a black silicon solar cell with an average reflectance of 0.3%, making it the “blackest” solar cell ever designed. Natcore’s development offers a tenfold decrease in reflectance over the solar spectrum. The result is an increase in energy efficiency that could help solar power compete even more effectively with traditional fossil fuels.
Continue reading… “‘Blackest’ solar cell ever absorbs 99.7% of all light”
New Solar Cells Can Produce Electricity From Light and Heat Simultaneously
A small PETE device made with cesium-coated gallium nitride glows while being tested inside an ultra-high vacuum chamber.
Though the sun offers us a couple options for exploiting its energy — light and heat — we’ve always had to choose to use one at a time, because solar-energy technology hasn’t been able to capture both typs of radiation simultaneously. Stanford researchers say that’s about to change, however. Their new breakthrough could put solar power on par with oil, price-wise. (Video)
Continue reading… “New Solar Cells Can Produce Electricity From Light and Heat Simultaneously”
Energize Your Home With Solar Curtains
Ever thought the curtains in your house are not bright enough? Researchers at MIT have created designs for flexible photovoltaic materials, known as solar textiles, that can also be draped as curtains, which may change the way buildings receive and distribute energy.
Continue reading… “Energize Your Home With Solar Curtains”
Artificial Houseplant Doubles As Super Efficient Solar Cell
Solar Powered Greenery Will Be A Huge Hit!
What do you do when your species unsettles the balance of nature? Create artificial nature to make up the difference, of course. Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Mitsubishi Corp. and Tokki Corp. have developed a prototype solar cell module that realistically takes on the look of a common houseplant.
Continue reading… “Artificial Houseplant Doubles As Super Efficient Solar Cell”
