Researchers from UNSW have developed a model linking UV-induced degradation in TOPCon solar cells to hydrogen transport, charge trapping, and structural changes in the passivation stack. Thicker aluminum oxide layers improve UV resilience by limiting hydrogen migration. The study conducted on TOPCon cells showed a complex interaction between chemical degradation and temporary enhancement in field-effect passivation. High-energy UV photons break Si-H bonds in the SiNx capping layer, releasing mobile hydrogen that degrades chemical passivation. Thicker 7 nm AlOx layers act as a more effective barrier to hydrogen transport, improving UVID resilience. Researchers have identified new failure modes and degradation mechanisms in TOPCon solar modules, including the impact of soldering flux, contact corrosion, and sodium-induced degradation. The research also highlights the vulnerability of TOPCon solar cells to various forms of degradation under different conditions. The study provides design guidance for more UV-robust passivation stacks and improved testing protocols, as presented in a paper published in Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells.
Category: Electricity
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Sunrun & HASI Form New $500 Million Joint Venture to Accelerate Distributed Power Development
HASI and Sunrun have announced a joint venture to finance distributed energy assets, with HASI investing up to $500 million over 18 months to support over 40,000 home power plants in the US. This partnership aims to provide a more efficient cost of capital and accelerate the development of essential infrastructure through home-based energy systems. Sunrun's Chief Financial Officer highlighted the innovative financing structure with HASI as a first-of-its-kind for residential storage and solar financing, offering an efficient capital structure for growth. While forward-looking statements have been made, both companies acknowledge the risks and uncertainties involved, with factors outlined in their Annual Reports filed with the SEC.
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Consumers Energy begins Muskegon Solar operations in Michigan, US
Consumers Energy has launched the Muskegon Solar project in Michigan, producing 250MW of electricity for 40,000 homes and businesses while creating over 200 jobs during construction. The facility, equipped with over 550,000 panels that track the sun's movement, is part of the company's efforts to enhance energy production. Consumers Energy is also advancing battery storage, wind, new solar, and natural gas projects in Michigan, aiming to establish a reliable and cost-effective electric grid for residents.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/consumers-energy-muskegon-solar-operations/
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Alphabet acquires clean energy developer Intersect for $4.75B
Alphabet's subsidiary Google is making strides in decarbonization by acquiring clean energy and data center infrastructure developer Intersect in a $4.75 billion deal. This acquisition will help Google combat rising emissions and prioritize decarbonizing its operational electricity consumption, with Intersect's $15 billion clean energy infrastructure portfolio in Texas and California. Google aims to halve its emissions by 2030 and run on carbon-free power 24/7, partnering with utilities and energy developers for clean power generation. The acquisition will allow Intersect to collaborate with Google on joint projects to drive innovation and leadership in the U.S. energy industry, showcasing a new approach to sustainable energy solutions.
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World’s 1st Production Solid-State Battery!
A small company in Finland, Donutlabs, has developed the world's first production solid-state battery with a high energy density of 400 Wh/kg. Verge Motorcycles has incorporated these batteries into their motorcycles, allowing for up to 600 km of range and an 80% charge in less than 10 minutes. The batteries have a long cycle life, work in extreme temperatures, and are safe and cost-effective. This advancement in battery technology could lead to the end of combustion engines in various applications and accelerate the electrification of the world's energy, offering a promising solution to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/01/05/worlds-1st-production-solid-state-battery/
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Some Ho, Ho, Hopes for 2026 and Beyond
In 2026 and beyond, advancements in clean energy, climate action, and innovation offer hope for addressing climate change. Key themes include focusing on the business case for clean energy, increasing public funding for climate technologies, utilizing AI for innovation and energy efficiency, accelerating deployment of low-carbon energy, and promoting electrification for global decarbonization. The need for year-round, real-economy action and increased climate ambition is emphasized, along with the importance of collaboration and sharing knowledge in the pursuit of climate solutions.
https://speedandscale.com/newsletter/some-ho-ho-hopes-for-2026-and-beyond/
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Rooftop solar is booming, but not in the communities that need it most
Solar adoption in the U.S. has been rapidly growing, with 84% of new electricity generation capacity coming from solar and storage in 2024. State governments are implementing programs to lower barriers to entry for solar technology, such as tax credits and rebates, while community solar is being used to increase access for low-income households. There is nearly 14 GW of untapped potential on commercial rooftops that can power various facilities without requiring additional land use permits. By combining data analysis with community engagement, solar development can be made faster, equitable, and strategic, turning existing infrastructure into renewable energy assets that benefit a range of communities. The key to achieving a cleaner future lies in merging innovation with inclusion, aligning policy, technology, and trust to make solar work for everyone.
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EPFL researchers enhance perovskite solar cell performance via rubidium
Researchers at the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne in Switzerland and a collaborative team from Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National University of Singapore, University of Ioannina, and Politecnico di Milano have made significant advancements in perovskite solar cell technology. By incorporating rubidium (Rb) into the perovskite lattice structure, they were able to enhance stability and efficiency, achieving champion efficiency levels of 25.77% and 20.65% respectively. The introduction of Rb+ cations at grain domain boundaries and the lattice strain approach led to improved carrier diffusion length, lifetime, and suppression of halide phase segregation. These developments mark a promising step forward in the quest for more efficient and stable solar energy solutions.
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Tata Power Commissions 1.4-Gigawatt Solar Farm Just Before Year End
Tata Power has commissioned a 1.4 GW solar power plant in Rajasthan, India, the largest they have ever built, expected to produce 2.454 TWh of electricity annually. The power will be distributed to Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, and Uttarakhand, utilizing bifacial modules and high-performance inverters for efficiency. Developed under the CPSU Scheme of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, this project showcases a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in the region.
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SPC commences operations at Japan’s first commercial floating wind project
Japan's first floating offshore wind project, the Goto Offshore Wind Farm, has commenced commercial operations, utilizing a hybrid spar-type floater and engaging local companies in construction and maintenance. The electricity produced will be prioritized for retail electricity providers, promoting renewable energy and benefiting local communities. The project, initiated in 2019, officially launched commercial operations in 2026, marking a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in Japan.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/spc-japans-first-wind-project/