Due to COVID-19, a lot of solar energy projects were halted in 2020, but nowadays it may seem like everyone is giving it a go. Did you know that up to 191GW of new PV capacity might be installed globally this year, a 32.6% increase over 2020, according to BloombergNEF?!
Several nations have already surpassed their 2024 solar capacity goals due to governments’ lofty decarbonization plans. If you wish to know what good comes with the panel industry and you want to know more about it, keep on reading!
What’s happening in 2024/2023?
When you mention “solar power,” most people think of rooftop panels or a solar farm out in the desert.
The more traditional utility-scale and rooftop solar panels have long dominated the solar business.
However, a number of cutting-edge panel technologies are either presently available or in development.
The way we think about the creation of all types of energy will change as a result of these fascinating new advances, which will also have an impact on power.
Modern panels can be fitted without losing aesthetics on relatively tiny roof spaces. In the upcoming years, more & more people will consider taking this route.
Technologies That Have Changed the solar panel industry
1. Flexible cells with graphene
Researchers at MIT have produced flexible and transparent panels made from graphene.
The cells can adhere to a wide range of substrates, including glass, plastic, tape, and paper.
The research showed that the PCE of the novel solar cells was significantly lower than that of traditional panels.
In contrast to earlier transparent solar cells, however, these are significantly more efficient.
Future scenarios in which solar cells are integrated into everyday objects like windows, mobile phones, laptops, and walls are now within reach.
To achieve this breakthrough in technology, a method was developed to apply a layer of graphene to the solar cell that is only one atom thick. Graphene has allowed the creation of flexible, inexpensive, and transparent cells for most of its users.
2. Solar shingles & windows
Sun Tiles, a company, has developed solar shingles, which are roof tiles that incorporate solar panels into their design.
They use all of the home’s electrical wiring, rendering solar panels on the roof unnecessary.
Solar shingles are a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional panels, making the use of solar energy less of an eyesore.
Solar windows are made up of cells that are coated with a transparent coating, giving the impression that the building’s windows are made of glass when in reality they are made of clear solar cells.
While studies on solar windows are still in their infancy, experts in the area are hopeful that they will be on the market within the next five years.
These windows will generate twice as much electricity as solar cells due to their ability to convert both outside solar energy and solar energy in the visible spectrum into usable electricity.
3. Solar farms
Floating photovoltaic farms generate much more electricity at a lower cost than traditional solar farms on land.
They also gain from not needing to use land or erect buildings.
According to research, floating panels can generate up to 10% more electricity and see less module degradation when deployed in hot locations thanks to the cooling effect of the surrounding water.
Compared to land-based systems, installing floating PV systems takes substantially less time, and studies show that they enhance water quality while reducing evaporation. According to the World Bank, global floating solar capacity installations could reach 400 GW by 2050, which is approximately equal to the total solar capacity added globally through 2017.
4. Solar fabric
Because solar radiation is ubiquitous, it makes sense to create power wherever it is required.
Consider being able to use your own clothing as a solar power generator, rather than just in one place.
Solar textiles driven by solar energy at every strand are being developed by researchers.
These solar filaments might be woven into shirts, coats, and other garments to provide warmth, power electronic devices, and meet other demands while on the move.
The solar fabric has been studied in conjunction with panels for a range of applications. Using solar-fabricated household goods can help you save money on solar panel installation and mounting.
Solar cell makers are working on solar-powered robotic tents as part of the US Army’s mission.
As the cost of solar energy continues to fall, we are coming closer to a future in which the sun will provide practically all of humanity’s energy needs.
5. Heating & cooling
Solar Heating & Cooling (SHC) systems generate thermal energy (heat) for use in water heating and building heating applications by utilizing the sun’s rays.
However, it’s exciting that SHC technology can potentially be applied to refrigeration.
How does SHC technology work in that situation?
It takes in thermal energy from the sun and transforms it into hot water, heated pools, cooled interiors, and heated flooring for residences, commercial buildings, and manufacturing facilities.
Particularly solar heating systems are very affordable for homes to utilize.
In three to six years, they can expect to see a return on their investment.
These aid in both short- and long-term costs in the company setting, like energy utilization. With systems that cover between 10,000 and 50,000 square feet on a single wall, the United States has been a global leader in the production of SHC installations since 2010.
It’s made a significant space for repairing the heating and cooling of rooms and will continue making its impact.
Want to give it a go?
If you are going to buy solar panels make sure that you discuss your options and have someone inspect your home. Are you fit and prepared for this upgrade? With proper solar panels, everyone can get the home of their dreams! If you wish to know more about them and you need a team that you can trust just click here and let them answer all of your questions.
