A new contactless system developed by a team led by Hameiri at UNSW is revolutionizing the way solar cells are tested, using luminescence to analyze key electrical properties and offering detailed maps of defects, performance, and predicted lifespan. This technology overcomes limitations of current testing methods, allowing intact cells during testing and early defect detection, working with both silicon and emerging perovskite and tandem solar cells. The collaboration between UNSW and BT Imaging is turning laboratory breakthroughs into practical, factory-ready products for manufacturers worldwide, providing a versatile solution for mass production of next-generation solar technologies.
Category: Electricity
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Shift Production
– Improve Electrical System
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Eco Stor breaks ground on Germany’s largest battery storage project
Construction has commenced on Germany's largest battery storage project in Förderstedt, Saxony-Anhalt, boasting a capacity of 300 MW/714 MWh, surpassing RWE's facility to become the country's largest under development. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by political and industry leaders, signifying a major advancement in energy storage capacity in Germany. This project by Eco Stor represents a significant step towards bolstering climate solutions and renewable energy integration in the region.
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TriplePundit • The Solar Revolution Has Only Just Begun
The evolution of global sustainability over the past 20 years has seen significant advancements in solar technology, with costs falling globally and integration with other systems. The history of solar energy dates back to the 1950s, with improvements in efficiency and cost reduction over time. In the United States, support for solar energy has seen peaks under Presidents Carter and Obama, leading to the SunShot program and a significant drop in solar panel costs. With solar energy now the most economical way to meet rising electricity demand, new developments in technology such as rooftop panels, agrivoltaics, and emerging technologies like perovskites and thin film solar cells are driving further innovation. The future of solar energy looks promising, with advancements like see-through solar cells and orbiting systems expected to revolutionize energy solutions for years to come.
https://triplepundit.com/2025/the-solar-revolution-has-only-just-begun/
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Wind hits record share of 150 pct of state demand, as fossil energy shrinks to just 1.5 pct of total generation
South Australia has achieved remarkable new records in renewable energy, with wind energy hitting a new peak share of 149.6% of state demand. The state has been running at an average of 75% wind and solar over the past year and aims to reach 100% "net" renewables by 2027. Battery storage is also playing a significant role in reducing the reliance on fossil fuels, with 31.2% of demand being met by batteries at peak times. The state's increased capacity on interstate transmission lines and new big battery projects under construction are further contributing to the growth of renewable energy. A world-first trial by AEMO using battery inverters to run big grids with no synchronous generation showed promising results, setting records for renewables share, curtailment levels, and battery charging load on Sunday.
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3D solar tower increases capacity factor 50%, triples solar surface area
Janta Power has secured $5.5 million in funding to develop its innovative vertical solar tower technology, currently being piloted at major global airports. These 3D solar towers offer high energy density for space-constrained areas and can be utilized in various applications like data centers, EV charging hubs, and industrial facilities. With a capacity factor 50% higher than traditional solar installations, the towers achieve a low levelized cost of electricity at $0.05 kWh. Their design allows for better alignment with energy demand and helps reduce stress on grids by providing smooth energy delivery throughout the day.
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New solar and battery hybrid project sets ball rolling on environmental approvals after CIS tender win
The Corop solar farm in Victoria, a new solar and battery hybrid project, has been chosen as a winner in a federal government tender. With 440 MW of solar PV and 800 MWh of battery storage, the project will span 1,100 hectares of farmland and include 1.19 million solar panels and 208 BESS containers. Since 2019, the project has been undergoing public consultation and has been referred for environmental assessment. This innovative project showcases the potential for large-scale renewable energy solutions to help combat climate change.
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Electrify America Real-Time Charger Info Now On Google Maps
Electrify America and Google have teamed up to offer real-time charging station information on Google Maps, enhancing accessibility for electric vehicle drivers. This partnership addresses the need for up-to-date charger status as EV usage expands. Drivers can now conveniently check charger availability, connector type, charging speed, and operational status through the user-friendly Google Maps interface. This collaboration represents progress in making public charging more convenient and efficient for EV drivers, particularly during long journeys.
https://cleantechnica.com/2025/10/27/electrify-america-real-time-charger-info-now-on-google-maps/
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One Brownfield Down, One Clean Solar Power Plant Up
Solar power plants are being established as a quick and economical way to add kilowatts to the grid while also preserving farmland and transforming contaminated sites into community assets. The US Environmental Agency's Re-Powering America's Land program aims to harvest clean energy from contaminated sites, with brownfield-to-solar development becoming a mature sector of the solar industry. The Acton project in Massachusetts, utilizing ground screws for secure racking systems, showcases the industry's ability to transform contaminated sites into clean power stations. Terrasmart, a US racking firm, is manufacturing ground screws in-house to support the growth of the solar industry. The Acton project repurposes a contaminated Superfund site for solar energy production, creating local jobs and boosting grid resilience, with energy storage included to optimize the value of solar power for ratepayers. Community solar projects like Acton enable all ratepayers to save money as solar costs have dropped, driving significant growth in the community solar market and integrating with the agrivoltaic market. Despite challenges from the federal government, the demand for solar energy remains strong among ratepayers, with a new solar power plant in Acton, Massachusetts transforming a contaminated site into a community asset.
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World’s biggest isolated grid hits new peak of 89 per cent renewables, led by rooftop solar
Western Australia's South West Interconnected System has reached a record high of 89% renewables, led by rooftop solar, with plans to retire coal generators by 2029 and fill the gap with new wind and solar capacity. The grid is supported by large batteries to balance supply and demand, with the federal government seeking bids for 1.6 GW of new capacity. Winners will be announced in March or April next year, and support for independent media like Renew Economy is encouraged to promote accurate information and climate solutions. Giles Parkinson, founder and editor-in-chief of Renew Economy, is highlighted as a journalist with over 40 years of experience dedicated to supporting climate solutions through independent media.