Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a solar-powered desalination system designed to produce fresh drinking water while efficiently capturing salts and minerals to minimize environmental impact. This innovative technology utilizes specially engineered black metal panels and directs remaining salts to a designated region for collection, addressing global water shortages and enhancing sustainable supply chains for precious minerals, including lithium. The project is supported by both the Melinda Gates Foundation and the Worldwide Universities Network.
In a notable achievement, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems, in collaboration with AZUR SPACE and temicon, has set a new solar module efficiency record of 34.4 percent, surpassing the previous record of 34.2 percent. This advancement was made possible through the application of shingled matrix technology, which improves solar cell interconnection and area utilization, representing a significant leap in renewable energy technology.
At SNEC 2026, the solar industry is increasingly focusing on integrated solar-plus-storage systems, emphasizing the need for grid stability and innovative applications in energy storage. Additionally, Carbon Clean’s expansion in India is anticipated to support around 250 jobs in the UK and generate £83 million in economic value over the next five years, striving to enhance carbon capture technology across various industrial sectors.
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Places mentioned in this update: India, Navi Mumbai, UK