Scientists at Empa, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, have developed thin-film solar cells on flexible polymer foils with a new record efficiency of 20.4% for converting sunlight into electricity.
Solar PV equipment spending was down US$3.6 billion in 2012 from US$12.9 billion in 2011, according to new research in the latest NPD Solarbuzz PV Equipment Quarterly report.
The US Energy Department has today announced the availability of US$12 million to accelerate solar energy innovation that could help reduce manufacturing and installation costs for homes, businesses and utilities.
Slurry recycling specialist, SiC Processing which is currently in receivership, has warned unsecured creditors to expect low debt recovery due to a preliminary, unaudited assessment of its assets.
Major polysilicon producer Hemlock Semiconductor has cited unresolved trade disputes, notably with China, as a key factor behind the decision to lay off approximately 400 employees, while reducing polysilicon production and delaying the ramp of its new plant in Tennessee.
Thin-film product developer DayStar Technologies has entered into an agreement to acquire seven solar projects from Arxikon Construction Company in Greece.
Venture capital investments in solar plunged to US$992 million in 2012 compared to US$1.9 billion the previous year, representing the lowest amount since 2007, reports consulting firm Mercom Capital.
Schott Solar is to transfer to the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems 111 patent families relating to crystalline silicon photovoltaics, it has been announced.
Thin-film manufacturer First Solar, in conjunction with developer Fundación Chile, has announced the acquisition of Solar Chile as part of its its endeavour to advance into new markets.
