Solar panels innovations
Lithuanian based company SoliTek few months ago presented BLACKSTAR – new ultimate solar panel. At the core of this innovative product lie 3 major elements: bifacial monocrystalline solar cells, premium tempered glass and flawless industrial design. It’s esthetically pleasing 100% black face looks sleek and can be installed framed on any possible roof surface.
For a decade SoliTek is researching, developing and manufacturing solar panels only in Europe and only from trusted component suppliers. The highest production standards and quality of BLACKSTAR panels is approved by 100% circular economy compatible Cradle to Cradle Certified™ Products Program Silver Award – one of its kind in the world.
The SOLID series of full glass panels are manufactured with 3 top priorities: longest lifetime in the market, highest reliability, 100% recyclable. BLACKSTAR panels are designed for even roughest cold, hot, windy and salty environments. They are 100% fireproof (class A) and totally recyclable.
Bifacial is called an advanced double-sided solar panel that transforms sunlight into electrical energy on both – its top and bottom – sides. This is made possible using double sided solar cells and protective tempered glass on both sides of the panel. It is very different from conventional solar panel with opaque backing.
The bottom solar cell side absorbs light that is reflected off the ground. This light is called albedo light. The white surface beneath the panel can reflect up to 80% of reflected sunlight. At ideal circumstances bifacial solar panel can generate up to 40% more electricity, compared with conventional solar panel.
To test the product for extreme durability, BLACKSTAR test-modules are placed in an industrial grade “test oven” to undergo 250 Thermal Cycles (up to +70C) and 50 Humidity Freeze Cycles (down to -50C). In total there are 5000 hours of hard tests, that simulate 50 years of “ordinary life on earth”.
There are ongoing innovations worldwide in the field of solar panels manufacturing. Scientists from South Korea’s Incheon National University created transparent solar panels. Clear silicon replaces the traditional opaque semi-conductor layers in current solar energy cells, reports Springwise.
Transparent panels greatly widen the potential applications of the energy. See-through solar cells could be used on everything from mobile phone screens to skyscrapers and cars. The team behind the discovery explored the potential of metal oxide transparent photovoltaic (TPV) solar panels.
By inserting an ultra-thin layer of silicon between two clear, metal-oxide semiconductors, the solar cell becomes usable in low light weather conditions. It is capable of utilising longer wavelengths of light as well. In tests, the team used the new solar panel to run a fan motor.
Interestingly, the combination of materials produced a rapid movement of power. That could prove particularly useful to people charging devices while on the move. The main drawback of the discovery appears to be the relatively low-efficiency rate. This is attributable mainly to the transparent characteristics of the zinc and nickel oxide layers. The researchers plan to pursue development via nanocrystals, sulfide semiconductors and other new materials.
