Researchers Improve Solar Cell Performance
News for Nerds website Slashdot is reporting Researchers Improve Solar Cell Performance.
Researchers at MIT have improved solar collectors using dyes. They just increased their performance results by a factor of 4. These paint-on materials can increase the power obtained from existing solar cells by a factor of over 40 without needing to track the sun. ‘By collecting light over their full surface and concentrating it at their edges, these devices reduce the required area of solar cells and consequently, the cost of solar power. Stacking multiple concentrators allows the optimization of solar cells at each wavelength, increasing the overall power output.’ There is also a shorter FAQ available.
Every single percentile point of efficiency in solar cells lowers the thresholds for widespread adoption and a green revolution. I really believe solar power is our future. — DS