In a breakthrough development, EtaVolt–a spin-off from NTU Singapore–developed the world’s first device to rejuvenate solar panels and protect them against rapid degradation. Particularly disconcerting to the renewable energy industry is a difficulty experienced with solar panels, which lose efficiency soon after installation and even more so in harsh climates. One such instance sees performance fall 10 % within the first year alone due strictly to environmental factors. The degradation is estimated to cost the world a staggering US $ 2 billion loss in energy.
In the past, there have been two principal methods of maintaining solar panel performance: cleaning this top glass layer or replacing the entire module when things are really bad. But these methods have ultimately proven to be expensive and wasteful. EtaVolt has developed an Innovative solution, dubbed Advanced Regeneration Technology. It is a revolutionary way to extend the life of aging solar panels quickly and cheaply.
The Advanced Regeneration Technology works by blasting solar cells with intense light and precisely controlled temperatures. This process causes the polysilicon molecules inside cells to shake and refold. These molecules are rearranged in such a way as to mend these ‘holes’, and prevent the leaking of energy. This allows light energy collection at its best performance level. The technology actually works as a strengthening agent for solar panels. It keeps them strong, and at their peak efficiency throughout extended lifetimes.
Dr. Stanley Wang, co-founder of EtaVolt stressed that their patented technology was better than other technologies in reducing e-waste and prolonging the life cycle of solar panels through its higher efficiency as well as greater reliability compared to traditional amorphous silicon films
Rigorous testing and validation revealed the positive impact of EtaVolt’s Advanced Regeneration Technology. In many commercial applications, the technology has shown field-proven results and is bringing its effectiveness to a wider audience. Dr.Wang describes how the technology has been successfully implemented in cooperation with major partners throughout the solar industry, such asVector Green, a renewable energy solutions firm here in Silicon Valley.
The arrival of this groundbreaking technology solves a key problem confronting the solar power industry. This solution not only meets environmental responsibility, it also fits with resource efficiency principles. With the ever-increasing demand for renewable energy, innovations such as EtaVolt’s Advanced Regeneration Technology will continue to be needed if solar panels are going to last long and perform well a result that is essential in promoting a global transition towards more environmentally friendly sources of power.
