Moroccan researchers develop more efficient and durable PVT solar panels: Researchers at Chouaïb Doukkali University in Morocco have developed an advanced photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) solar panel that is more efficient and durable compared to conventional panels, according to a recently released research paper (pdf). The new design features a PV module, protective layers, a glass cover plate, and an aluminum heat exchanger.

The results: The exchanger effectively transfers heat from the PV module to the cooling fluid, addressing temperature imbalances that typically reduce the lifespan of solar panels. Simulations demonstrated an overall efficiency of 90.7% — broken up in 12.11% electrical efficiency and 78.59% thermal efficiency. Every 10 liter per hour increase in flow rate reduces the temperature of the solar cell by nearly 0.9°C, the researchers found.

Is PVT a game changer for the region? PVT stations are more efficient and have a higher energy output under higher temperatures and strong solar radiation conditions compared to PV stations, which are better suited for low ambient temperatures and weak solar radiation.

The key difference: PV technology converts solar energy into electricity, but its electrical efficiency is relatively low, ranging from 6% to 25% under standard conditions. Most of the absorbed solar energy turns into heat, raising the PV panels' temperature and reducing their efficiency. PVT modules on the other hand combine PV and solar thermal technologies by having water flow through the PV panel to cool it and improve electrical efficiency while generating hot water.

Saudi is looking into other ways to improve solar cell efficiency: Researchers from Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah University of Science and Technology created tandem solar systems with a power conversion efficiency rate of 33.2% — up 0.7 percentage points from previous global record holder Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin. Saudi renewables player Acwa Power signed an MoU with China’s Huawei Digital Power in June to develop a joint research and development program that aims to localize photovoltaic string production tech in Saudi Arabia, maximize solar panel efficiency, and reduce costs.

Omani students have made breakthroughs in solar panel production: Engineering students at Oman’s Sultan Qaboos University developed a solar panel production technique that relies on polyethylene and graphene instead of crystalline silicon, making it 60% more efficient at absorbing light than silicon-based alternatives.

And Turkey is getting in on the action: A design featuring shell-shaped organic solar cell surface instead of a conventional flat exterior for the active layer designed by Turkey’s Abdullah Gül University is enabling panels to absorb energy from multiple angles, yielding a 66% increase in light absorption. The flexibility of the new tech makes it suitable for applications on the move, such as wearable solar cells.

Tags: