Photovoltaic (PV) research and development aim to reduce overall solar energy costs. Funding solar energy research by the government has led to new industries and job creation. The continued growth in this sector significantly impacts the environment by reducing the effects of climate change.

Research can help development in the solar industry and leads to better efficient energy. Over the last few decades, clean energy has become cheaper due to research. In this article, we will look at solar energy research and development in detail. Let’s begin.

Solar Panels

Researchers are continually improving and developing solar panel technology. We have come a long way since the making of the first solar panels. In the past few years, there have been significant milestones such as efficiency, energy storage, the invention of wearable solar technologies, and many more.  

The good news about this is the continually reducing price of solar modules and other technologies. There are two leading solar technologies: photovoltaics (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP). Solar PV involves capturing the sun’s light and converting it into electricity. Concentrated solar power entails harvesting the sun’s heat and using it to power heaters and turbines. Both of these technologies have grown through research and development.

Improved efficiency

Solar cell efficiency has significantly improved over the years. In the past ten years, the most efficient solar panels could convert 12% of the sunlight that hit them into electricity. Currently, solar panels’ efficiency ranges between 17-19%.

Through solar modules research, it is possible to achieve 30% PV efficiency. With such efficiency, solar energy consumption would increase from the current 2.4% global supply. Mainstream markets make silicon cells based panels. However, due to Perovskite solar cells, this could also change.

Solar Inverters

PV research and development not only focuses on solar panels but also on solar inverters. They help in improving the quality of the electric power harnessed. A solar photovoltaic (PV) inverter should reduce harmonic distortion on the system, thus improving the power quality.

Solar Storage

According to a joint study between the European Patent Office and the IEA, electricity storage innovations have grown 14% a year over the past decade. These affordable electricity storage systems have been essential catalysts in the growth of the clean energy sector. As a result, cleaner energy has penetrated various parts of the world.

Solar Research for 2030 Goals

Apart from ongoing research enabling wearable solar gadgets or solar-powered roads, it is also responsible for facilitating 2030 goals. One of the notable MDG goals for 2030 is affordable clean energy.

As solar energy research continues, there is hope for improved storage, better grid connection, and more efficient solar panels. If solar panels have an efficiency of about 30%, it will reduce the number of modules installed. Users will greatly benefit from such innovation.