Photovoltaic-thermal collectors, or PVT, are in vogue. Because they simultaneously produce electricity and heat, they are a suitable energy source for heat pumps. Also, a PVT collector achieves a significantly higher...
The transformation of our energy system from a fossil fuel-based to renewable-based system is key to limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. However, the massive and rapid expansion of renewable...
A novel system of optical elements redirects light so that the irradiance on the cells is increased, no light passes the pv module “unused” and more power is generated.
In the past years, the cost of photovoltaics has fallen rapidly. Today the cost of electricity production from solar PV modules has become so low that PV is now cost competitive with fossil fuel energy sources. This...
An old German saying says that the dumbest farmer produces the biggest potatoes. Today we can say in contrast that the clever farmer harvests solar electricity. In Germany, solar electricity is about ten times more...
SolarWorld is only the latest bankrupt PV manufacturer in Germany. Many now wonder: What is the matter with photovoltaics in Germany and what is next? When trying to answer these questions, we have to look at three...
A photovoltaic module consists of many interconnected solar cells. One cannot say, however, that the module power is simply the sum of the individual cells. Power losses due to reflection, absorption or electrical...
On November 11, 2016 at the Konzerthaus in Freiburg, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE honored Prof. Eicke R. Weber’s achievements at a scientific symposium on the global energy transformation. The...
On November 11, 2016 at the Konzerthaus in Freiburg, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE honored Prof. Eicke R. Weber’s achievements at a scientific symposium on the global energy transformation. The...
When one thinks of photovoltaic cells, then it is usually in connection with the conversion of solar radiation into electricity, a main research area at Fraunhofer ISE in line with the energy transformation. However...
Whether in Chile, Germany or somewhere else in the world – bringing home the harvest after a long working day is a satisfying feeling. As the German folk song “Im Märzen der Bauer” (In March the farmer) says: “He...