New solar plant design increases efficiency by 125%
Designing solar panels in checkerboard lines increases their ability to absorb light by 125 per cent, a new study says. Researchers say the breakthrough could lead to the production of thinner, lighter and more flexible solar panels that could be used to power more homes and be used in a wider range of products. The study investigated how different surface designs impacted the absorption of sunlight in solar cells, which when put together form solar panels. Scientists found that the checkerboard design improved diffraction, which enhanced the probability of light being absorbed that is then used to create electricity. The renewable energy sector is constantly looking for new ways to boost the light absorption of solar cells in lightweight materials that can be used in products ranging from roof tiles to boat sails to camping equipment. Renewable energy—including solar power—made up 47 per cent of the UK's electricity generation in the first three months of 2020. Solar-grade silic...