Solar power is evolving at an amazing rate but as we head towards 2020, what are the new solar technologies that we should be expecting to see?
Clear Solar Panels
In 2020, you should expect to hear about huge buildings and skyscrapers completely powered by clean energy. You might think that clear solar panels are a thing of fiction but they are anything but. Researchers are already creating solar windows, using clear films that are placed on window glass to generate power. So, you won’t see buildings with solar panels, in fact, you won’t be able to see anything at all.
Tesla Solar Roof Tiles
Tesla has already created solar roof shingles but they are now focusing on solar roof tiles. This is a new type of building integrated PV and one that could really make a difference to the way in which solar panels are installed. They will remove the need for large panels, making homes and buildings look more aesthetically pleasing.
Split Cell Solar Modules
This is an exciting advancement in the industry but these split panels are around half the size of traditional panels and they use a new silicon chip architecture that supports solar thermal cycling. This leads to modules that last longer and enhanced efficiency.
Solar Thermophotovoltaics
Another new and exciting technology that could come to fruition in 2020 is Solar Thermophotovoltaics. This is a technology that researchers from MIT have been working on for some time. The technology effectively uses new solar panel compounds that convert thermal energy into focused beams. They can then enhance the efficiency of solar panels along with their ability to turn sunlight into usable energy.
Perovskite Solar Cells
Researchers have also been working on perovskite solar cells. These could reduce the total cost of solar power and that is all down to the fact that the materials cost less to produce than silicon cells. Research is driven further by worldwide targets.
