05-29-2015, 12:54 AM
Scientists have long talked about black silicon (that is, silicon with nano-sized structures) having the potential to trump conventional solar power, and there's now some proof that this is happening. Aalto University researchers have developed black silicon solar cells that achieve a record 22.1 percent efficiency when turning the Sun's rays into usable energy. That's a 4 percent absolute boost over the previous best in black silicon, and good enough that the technology could finally be ready to reach the market and replace existing solar panels. Black silicon is far better suited to collecting sunlight at low angles, which is common in northern regions -- you wouldn't have to live in a sunny, forgiving part of the world to get the most out of clean energy.
Super-efficient solar cells can power homes in unforgiving areas
The South African pilot project mounted by Ripasso Energy of Sweden claims to have achieved the most efficient conversion of solar energy into power – at 34%, nearly double the efficiency of PV technology – and is, according to the Guardian report, ready for commercial deployment. The 100-square-meter dishes track the sun across the sky and focus its heat into a tiny point, which then allows the alternate heating and cooling of enclosed gas in a Stirling engine to drive pistons that turn a flywheel to generate electricity.
Is This The Efficiency Breakthrough Solar Has Been Waiting For? | OilPrice.com