New Heights in Solar Panel Efficiency
A research team from LONGi Green Energy Technology, a leading Chinese firm in the solar energy sector, has surpassed the world record for solar panel efficiency. The team achieved an impressive 27.3 per cent efficiency level, breaking the previous record of 27.1 per cent, which was set less than six months ago.
Advancements Under Laboratory Conditions
The record-breaking efficiency level was achieved under laboratory conditions using a crystalline silicon solar cell. In addition to this achievement, LONGi also revealed a new commercially available cell with a conversion efficiency rate of 24.43 per cent. This new technology is set to significantly contribute to the global transition towards clean energy sources.
Consistent Performance and High Reliability
“The module maintains its performance throughout its lifespan as it is designed to the highest standards of reliability,” stated Dennis She, vice president of LONGi Green Energy Technology. He also added that power plant owners can be confident that a plant built from the HiMO 9 module will optimise their land use and maximise the value derived from sunlight.
Next-Generation Solar Cells: The Future of Solar Energy?
Despite the recent record, there is still a gap between the efficiency rates of current solar cells and next-generation solar cells that utilise perovskite, which have achieved efficiency rates beyond 33 per cent in the lab. However, the new record indicates promising progress in enhancing the electricity generation capabilities of solar on a global scale.
Renewable Energy: A Rising Star in Global Electricity Generation
The breaking of the efficiency record coincides with a report published recently, which revealed that renewable energy accounted for over 30 per cent of the world’s electricity for the first time in 2023. The adoption of solar technologies has been a significant driver in this surge in clean energy use, as stated in the Global Electricity Review by climate think tank Ember.
Solar Power: A Growing Force in Electricity Generation
“The renewables future has arrived,” said Dave Jones, global insights director at Ember, adding that “Solar in particular is accelerating faster than anyone thought possible.” Solar power now accounts for more than 10 per cent of annual electricity generation in over 30 countries, and made up 5.5 per cent of global electricity generation in 2023, up from 4.6 per cent in 2022.
The Future of Solar and Wind Power
According to Ember’s report, solar and wind power are set to form the backbone of the future electricity system, providing nearly 70 per cent of global electricity by 2050. The report also highlighted that the ongoing cost reductions for solar and wind power, battery storage, electric vehicles, and other key technologies indicate a future where clean energy is not only environmentally friendly, but also economically viable.
