Search Results (75)

Precise photovoltaic (PV) performance modeling is essential for optimizing system design, operational monitoring, and reliable power forecasting—yet spectral correction is often overlooked, despite its significant impact on energy yield uncertainty. This study employs the FARMS-NIT model to assess the impact of spectral irradiance on eight PV technologies across 79 European sites, grouped by Köppen–Geiger climate classification. Unlike previous studies limited to clear-sky or single-site analysis, this work integrates satellite-derived spectral data for both all-sky and clear-sky scenarios, enabling hourly, tilt-optimized simulations that reflect real-world operating conditions. Spectral analyses reveal European climates exhibit blue-shifted spectra versus AM1.5 reference, only 2–5% resembling standard conditions. Thin-film technologies demonstrate superior spectral gains under all-sky conditions, though the underlying drivers vary significantly across climatic regions—a distinction that becomes particularly evident in the clear-sky analysis. Crystalline silicon exhibits minimal spectral sensitivity (<1.6% variations), with PERC/PERT providing highest stability. CZTSSe shows latitude-dependent performance with ≤0.7% variation: small gains at high latitudes and losses at low latitudes. Atmospheric parameters were analyzed in detail, revealing that air mass (AM), clearness index (K_t), precipitable water (W), and aerosol optical depth (AOD) play key roles in shaping spectral effects, with different parameters dominating in distinct climate groups. Full article

We explored the impact of high operating temperatures for monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) modules which dominate the market. Using nine years of hourly climate data with the System Advisor Model (SAM), we examined temperature impacts and cooling potential benefits across three climate zones in the United States. Assuming that cooling approaches can achieve a constant temperature decrease of ΔT independent of irradiance and environmental conditions, our simulations show that a ΔT = 10 °C temperature reduction could improve energy yield by almost 3% annually. Cooling technologies have the strongest impact during the hottest months, with even a 5 °C reduction raising efficiency by nearly 10%. When the minimum temperature of the cooled module is constrained to the ambient temperature, ΔT = 20 °C boosts the hottest month energy yield by over 25%. For economically viable cooling systems, the cooling cost should be much less than the break-even cost. We estimate break-even costs of USD 25–40/m² for 10 °C and USD 40–60/m² for 20 °C cooling for the locations simulated. For ΔT > 20 °C, the added energy yield shows diminishing returns with minimum increase in break-even costs. Full article

As photovoltaic (PV) installations expand globally, effective recycling of end-of-life crystalline silicon solar cells has become increasingly important, including the recovery of valuable metals such as silver (Ag) and aluminium (Al). Traditional nitric acid-based chemical leaching methods, although effective, present environmental challenges due to the generation of hazardous nitrogen oxide (NO_x) emissions. To address these concerns, this study investigated alternative hydrometallurgical leaching strategies. Two selective treatments (NaOH for Al, and NH₃ + H₂O₂ for Ag) and one simultaneous treatment (HNO₃ + H₂O₂) were evaluated for metal recovery efficiency. All methods demonstrated high recovery efficiencies, achieving at least 99% for both metals within 60 min. The investigated methods effectively suppressed NO_x emissions without compromising leaching efficiency. These findings confirm that hydrometallurgical leaching techniques incorporating hydrogen peroxide can achieve efficient and environmentally safer recovery of silver and aluminium from solar cells, providing valuable insights into the development of more sustainable recycling practices for photovoltaic waste management. Full article

Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has emerged as the most preferred source of clean energy generation and has been deployed at a large scale. However, end-of-life management of the PV modules is a critical issue that has garnered the recent attention of lawmakers and researchers alike. Consequently, several researchers are actively developing technology to recycle the end-of-life PV modules. Since silicon PV modules account for more than 90% of the modules deployed globally, most of these efforts are focused on recycling crystalline silicon PV modules. Researchers have primarily focused on recovering pure silver from the contacts and pure Si from the solar cells. However, to ensure complete recyclability of such panels, the different polymers used in these modules must also be recycled. This review addresses the issue of recycling the polymers from end-of-life c-Si modules. Scopus and Google Scholar were used to search for the relevant literature. This review presents the current state-of-the-art technology related to polymer recycling found in the PV modules, the challenges encountered in their recycling, and the outlook. While research on the recycling of polymers has progressed in the last few decades, the instances of their applications in the recycling of polymers from PV panels are rarely reported in the literature. In this work, certain technical pathways, which can be employed to recycled polymers obtained from end-of-life PV panels, are presented. Recycling the polymers from the end-of-life silicon PV modules is crucial for improving the sustainability of solar PV technology. Full article

Italy ranks among the leading countries in photovoltaic (PV) adoption, having installed 6.80 GW of new PV capacity, bringing the total installed capacity to 37.09 GW in 2024. However, this widespread deployment also leads to a substantial amount of PV waste as systems reach the end of their lifespan. This study aims to estimate the volume of PV waste expected to be generated in Italy due to the decommissioning of end-of-life (EoL) PV panels and to explore landfill and recovery scenarios that could offer the most sustainable management strategies. The findings indicate that 4520 kilotonnes of PV waste will be produced in Italy between 2030 and 2050. Of this, a significant share consists of glass (2704.9 kilotonnes) and aluminum (762.1 kilotonnes). Additionally, Italy will produce 174.6 kt of landfill waste in 2036. In 2049 and 2050, the total composition recovery is predicted to reach 571 kt and 604.7 kt, respectively. To summarize, the main contributions of this work include (1) projections of the EoL of crystalline silicon PV waste by material quantity for 2050, (2) the economic value share of PV module materials based on waste estimates and recovery, and (3) the estimation of the EoL solar compositions generated by 2050. Full article

Flexibility, light weight, and mechanical robustness are the key advantages of flexible photovoltaic (PV) modules, making them highly versatile for sustainable energy solutions. Unlike traditional rigid PV modules, their flexible nature makes them incredibly versatile for harnessing energy in places where doing so was once impossible. They have a wide range of applications due to their flexibility and moldability, making it possible to conform these modules to surfaces like curved rooftops and other irregular structures. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of all the materials used in flexible PV modules with a focus on their role in sustainability. We thoroughly discuss the active-layer materials for crystalline silicon (c-Si)-based solar cells (SC) and thin-film solar cells such as cadmium telluride (CdTe), as well as copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS), amorphous thin-film silicon (a-Si), perovskite and organic solar cells. Various properties, such as the optical, barrier, thermal, and mechanical properties of different substrate materials, are reviewed. Transport layers and conductive electrode materials are discussed with a focus on emerging trends and contributions to sustainable PV technology. Various fabrication techniques involved in making flexible PV modules, along with advantages, disadvantages, and future trends, are highlighted in the paper. The commercialization of flexible PV is also discussed, which is a crucial milestone in advancing and adapting new technologies in the PV industry with a focus on contributing toward sustainability. Full article

The rapid proliferation of photovoltaic (PV) solar cells as a clean energy source has raised significant concerns regarding their end-of-life (EoL) management, particularly in terms of sustainability and waste reduction. This review comprehensively examines challenges, opportunities, and future directions in the recycling of PV solar cells, focusing on mechanical, thermal, and chemical recycling techniques. It also evaluates the scalability and practicality of these methods to different PV technologies, including crystalline silicon and thin-film modules. It explores the economic and environmental impacts of these processes, highlighting the necessity of developing robust recycling infrastructure and innovative technologies to address the anticipated surge in PV waste. Additionally, this review discusses the critical role of government policies and industry collaboration in overcoming the barriers to effective recycling. Furthermore, the importance of integrating design-for-recyclability principles into PV module development is emphasized, as it can significantly enhance material recovery and process efficiency. By advancing these strategies, the solar industry can achieve greater sustainability, reduce resource depletion, and mitigate environmental risks, thereby ensuring the long-term viability of solar energy as a key component of global renewable energy initiatives. Full article

In order to elucidate the market potential and competition strategies of various photovoltaic (PV) technologies in the context of future architectural trends, taking into account the aesthetic impact and evolving architectural styles, a suite of market assessment methodologies was proposed and applied to systematically evaluate five commercially available PV technologies. Three methodologies were employed or introduced: a comprehensive weighting approach that integrates the TOPSIS entropy weight method with user weight surveys, cumulative prospect theory (CPT), and a market integration method. The survey revealed that price emerged as the paramount factor distinguishing technologies, with a score of 4.8766, closely followed by conversion rates, at 4.8326. Aesthetics was deemed 3% more significant than government subsidies to consumers, scoring 4.4414. During the evaluation, technical indicators were translated into professional financial metrics. The results indicated that crystalline silicon PV technologies hold market advantages in both traditional and transparent applications. Monocrystalline silicon exhibited the highest utility in traditional settings, with a value of −0.0766, whereas polysilicon topped the charts in transparent applications, scoring −0.0676. However, when aesthetics was fully factored in, thin-film technologies began to outperform crystalline silicon, initially in transparent settings and subsequently in traditional ones. When both scenarios were merged, the market share of thin-film PVs increased with a rise in transparent applications, while that of crystalline silicon PVs decreased. Sensitivity and comparative analyses yielded diverse outcomes, validating the robustness of the findings. Further research unveiled that, beyond utility and cost, competition and technological factors also influence market shares, particularly when contemplating future shifts in architectural styles and innovations in product aesthetics. Considering the above, crystalline silicon PV can dominate the PVs in the building market due to their advantages of cost and efficiency, and thin-film PVs can increase their own market share with their aesthetic advantages in the future. Full article

The market for microinverters is growing, especially in Europe. Driven by rising electricity prices and an easing in legislation since 2024, the number of mini-photovoltaic energy systems (mini-PVs) being installed is increasing substantially. Indoor and outdoor studies of microinverters have been carried out at Paderborn University since 2014. In the indoor lab, conversion efficiencies as a function of load have been measured with high accuracy and ranked according to Euro and CEC weightings; the latest rankings from 2024 are included in this paper. In the outdoor lab, energy yields have been measured using identical and calibrated crystalline silicon PV modules; until 2020, measurements were carried out using 215 W_p modules. Because of increasing PV module power ratings, 360 W_p modules were used from 2020 until 2024. In 2024, the test modules were upgraded to 410 W_p modules, taking into account the increase from 600 W to 800 W of inverter power limits, which is suitable for simplified operation permission (“plug-in”) in many European countries within a homogenised legislation area for such mini-photovoltaic energy systems or “balcony power plants”. This legislation for simplified operation also covers overpowered mini-plants, although the maximum AC output remains limited to 800 W. Presently, yield assessments are being carried out in the outdoor lab, which will take at least a year to be valid and comparable. Kits consisting of PV modules, inverters, and mounting systems are also being evaluated. Yield rankings sometimes differ from efficiency rankings due to the use of different MPPT algorithms with different MPP approach speeds and accuracies. To accelerate yield assessment, we developed a novel, simple formula to determine energy yield for any module and inverter configuration, including overpowered systems. This is a linear approach, determined by just two coefficients, a and b, which are given for several inverters. To reduce costs, inverters will be integrated into the module frame or the module terminal box in the future. Full article

The rapid deployment of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems underscores their potential as vital clean energy solutions with reduced carbon emissions and increasingly competitive installation costs. This review examines PV waste management from a sustainable perspective, focusing on environmental impacts and technological advancements. Various solar cell technologies, including crystalline silicon, thin-film, and emerging third-generation cells like perovskite and organic photovoltaics, are analyzed for their life cycle and environmental effects. Effective disposal and recycling methods, such as physical separation and thermal and chemical treatments, are critically evaluated to mitigate ecological harm. The study highlights the need for improved recycling processes and sustainable practices to enhance the environmental benefits of PV systems. Future solutions call for better recycling techniques, increased efficiency in renewable materials, and comprehensive life cycle assessments to support the global transition to sustainable energy. This review aims to foster the integration of sustainable practices in the renewable energy sector, ensuring that PV systems contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future. Full article

Bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules can capture both front and rear incident light simultaneously, thereby enhancing their power output. Achieving uniformity in rear incident light is crucial for an efficient and a stable operation. In this study, we present a simple, yet effective textured rear reflector, designed to optimize the performance and stability of bifacial PV modules. The three-dimensional textured surface was created using an ethylene vinyl acetate sheet (EVA) through a hot-press method at 150 °C. Subsequently, the textured EVA surface was coated with solution-processed silver ink, increasing the reflectance of the textured reflector through a low-temperature process. The integration of the developed textured rear reflector into bifacial crystalline silicon (c-Si) PV modules resulted in an additional 6.9% improvement in power conversion efficiency compared to bifacial PV modules without a rear reflector, particularly when the rear reflector is close to the PV module. Furthermore, the textured rear reflector may mitigate current mismatch among cells by randomizing incident light and uniformly redistributing the reflected light to the PV cells. Consequently, the proposed textured reflector contributes to the enhanced performance and stability of bifacial PV modules. Full article

This paper addresses the potential of integrating a concentrating photovoltaic thermal (CPV/T) system with an absorption chiller for the purpose of space cooling in residential buildings in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The proposed system consists of a low concentrating photovoltaic thermal (CPV/T) collector that utilizes mono-crystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) cells integrated with a single-effect absorption chiller. The integrated system was modeled using the Transient System Simulation (TRNSYS v17) software. The obtained model was implemented in a case study represented by a villa situated in Abu Dhabi having a peak cooling load of 366 kW. The hybrid system was proposed to have a contribution of 60% renewable energy and 40% conventional nonrenewable energy. A feasibility study was carried out that demonstrated that the system could save approximately 670,700 kWh annually and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 461 tons per year. The reduction in carbon dioxide emissions is equivalent of removing approximately 98 cars off the road. The payback period for the system was estimated to be 3.12 years. Full article

The sustainability of products remains a challenge, mainly due to the lack of consistent approaches for simultaneously taking into account the key criteria of the concept in the process. This research aims to develop an eco-innovative QLCA method to create new product solutions that integrate quality (customer satisfaction) and environmental impact assessment throughout the product life cycle. The QLCA method includes: (i) product prototyping according to quality and environmental criteria; (ii) prospective assessment of the quality of prototypes, taking into account customer requirements; (iii) prospective life cycle assessment of product prototypes using a cradle-to-grave approach in accordance with ISO 14040; and (iv) setting the direction of product development while taking into account the fulfilment of customer expectations and the need to care for the environment throughout the product life cycle. Owing to the lack of previous research in this area, as well as the popularity of photovoltaic (PV) panels in reducing greenhouse gases, an illustration was obtained and test of the method was carried out on the example of silicon photovoltaic panel modules (Crystalline Si PV Module). In accordance with the adopted assumptions, the results of the QLCA method test showed that the modelled PV prototypes will, in most cases, be satisfactory for customers, but they still require improvement actions to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions throughout their life cycle. These activities should be consistent so as to achieve quality that satisfies customers. The QLCA method can be used by designers, managers, and decision-makers at the early stages of design, but also during the product maturity phase for its sustainable development. Full article

Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) glazing systems with intelligent window technologies enhance building energy efficiency by generating electricity and managing daylighting. This study explores advanced BIPV glazing, focusing on building-integrated concentrating photovoltaic (BICPV) systems. BICPV integrates concentrating optics, such as holographic films, luminescent solar concentrators (LSC), Fresnel lenses, and compound parabolic concentrators (CPCs), with photovoltaic cells. Notable results include achieving 17.9% electrical efficiency using cylindrical holographic optical elements and crystalline silicon cells at a 3.5× concentration ratio. Dielectric CPCs showed 97.7% angular acceptance efficiency in simulations and 94.4% experimentally, increasing short-circuit current and maximum power by 87.0% and 96.6%, respectively, across 0° to 85° incidence angles. Thermochromic hydrogels and thermotropic smart glazing systems demonstrated significant HVAC energy savings. Large-area 1 m² PNIPAm-based thermotropic window outperformed conventional double glazing in Singapore. The thermotropic parallel slat transparent insulation material (TT PS-TIM) improved energy efficiency by up to 21.5% compared to double glazing in climates like London and Rome. Emerging dynamic glazing technologies combine BIPV with smart functions, balancing transparency and efficiency. Photothermally controlled methylammonium lead iodide PV windows achieved 68% visible light transmission, 11.3% power conversion efficiency, and quick switching in under 3 min. Polymer-dispersed liquid crystal smart windows provided 41–68% visible transmission with self-powered operation. Full article

Solar PV is gaining increasing importance in the worldwide energy industry. Consequently, the global expansion of crystalline photovoltaic power plants has resulted in a rise in PV waste generation. However, disposing of PV waste is challenging and can pose harmful chemical effects on the environment. Therefore, developing technologies for recycling crystalline silicon solar modules is imperative to improve process efficiency, economics, recovery, and recycling rates. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of PV waste management, specifically focusing on crystalline solar cell recycling. The classification of PV recycling companies based on various components, including solar panels, PV glass, aluminum frames, silicon solar cells, junction boxes, plastic, back sheets, and cables, is explored. Additionally, the survey includes an in-depth literature review concentrating on chemical treatment for crystalline solar cell recycling. Furthermore, this study provides constructive suggestions for PV power plants on how to promote solar cell recycling at the end of their life cycles, thereby reducing their environmental impact. Moreover, the techno-economic and environmental dimensions of solar cell recycling techniques are investigated in detail. Overall, this review offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with crystalline solar cell recycling, emphasizing the importance of economically feasible and environmentally sustainable PV waste management solutions in the constantly evolving solar energy market. Full article