apers

Revolution in solar technology: Qcells achieve world record efficiency with perovskite-silicon cells

Razvan — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 13:45:06 +0000

Qcells, a subsidiary of the South Korean conglomerate Hanwha Corp, has set a new world efficiency record for commercial solar cells, reaching 28.6% with its tandem perovskite-silicon technology. This achievement promises to reduce costs, space requirements and resources consumed in large solar projects.

The record that redefines industry standards

South Korean company Qcells has announced that its commercial M10 solar cell, based on tandem perovskite-silicon tandem technology, has achieved an efficiency of 28.6%. This represents a significant jump from the 21% average of traditional silicon solar panels. “With this technology, a solar project requiring 100 panels could achieve the same efficiency with just 60 or 80 panels,” explained Danielle Merfeld, chief technology officer at Qcells. This breakthrough has major implications for the solar industry, enabling more compact and efficient projects.

Why perovskite is the future of solar energy

Perovskites are innovative materials that can absorb multiple wavelengths of sunlight, overcoming the limitations of traditional silicon solar cells. Thanks to this capability, the theoretical efficiency of perovskite-based solar cells can exceed 30%.

Key advantages of the perovskite:

Lower costs: perovskite materials are cheaper and easier to produce than silicon.
Versatility: Can be integrated into flexible and lightweight panels, extending their applicability in various fields.
Ecological impact: Reduced consumption of materials and resources needed for production.

Economic and environmental implications

The tandem perovskite-silicon technology not only promises a significant increase in efficiency, but also helps reduce the costs associated with large solar projects. A preliminary report indicates that the use of this technology could reduce total costs of solar systems by 15-20%. In addition, reducing the number of panels needed to obtain the same amount of energy could solve the problems of extensive land use, a major challenge for large-scale deployment of solar farms.

Challenges and future of tandem technology

Despite its impressive performance, perovskite-silicon technology faces challenges related to the long-term stability of perovskite materials and their integration into industrial production processes. “While these cells have shown enormous potential, durability testing and production scalability remain critical,” says one industry analyst. However, R&D investment continues to accelerate, with companies such as Qcells leading global efforts to overcome these hurdles.

A key step towards energy transition

Qcells’ progress demonstrates that technological innovations can significantly accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources. Perovskite-silicon tandem cells offer huge potential to revolutionize the solar industry, making clean energy more affordable and sustainable for all.

“Giving from the Heart with ENERGY for a Smile” – A celebration for children

Razvan — Sat, 21 Dec 2024 08:00:55 +0000

APERS invites you to participate in the event “Giving from the Soul with ENERGY for a Smile”, organized on December 23, 2024, starting at 2:00 p.m., at Vlahia Snagov Garden. The cultural-educational event is dedicated to approximately 100 institutionalized children from sectors 2 and 4, aged between 7 and 12 years, and aims to combine Christmas traditions with valuable lessons about environmental protection and renewable energy. Through the interactive activities, participants will discover the magic of the holidays in an educational and recreational way, alongside people who bring joy and hope to children. Join us to make this day an unforgettable memory for these children!

Lithium-ion vs. solid-state batteries: clashing energy technologies of the future

Razvan — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 13:02:18 +0000

The energy industry is on the brink of a revolution, with the development of solid-state batteries threatening to replace today’s lithium-ion batteries. What are the pros and cons of each technology, what does the future hold and what do the experts say?

A look at lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are the backbone of many modern devices, from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles. Introduced in the 1990s, they use a liquid or gel electrolyte to transport ions between cathode and anode during charge and discharge cycles.

Advantage:

High energy density: They can store a lot of energy in a compact volume, making them ideal for portable devices.
Relatively low cost: Well-developed infrastructure and mass production make them affordable.
Acceptable lifespan: Usually sustain 300-500 cycles before losing about 20% of capacity.

Disadvantages:

Low safety: Liquid electrolyte is flammable and overheating can lead to fires.
Degradation over time: Loss of storage capacity is inevitable, especially with heavy use.
Low performance at extreme temperatures: Efficiency drops significantly at very low or very high temperatures.

The solid-state battery revolution

Solid-state batteries are the next step in energy technology. Instead of liquid electrolyte, they use a solid material such as ceramic or polymer. This change promises to solve many of the limitations of lithium-ion batteries.

Advantage:

Increased safety: The absence of flammable liquids reduces the risk of fires and spills.
Extended service life: Can withstand 2,000-3,000 cycles with minimal degradation.
Extreme temperature performance: Works efficiently in cold or intense heat.
Higher energy density: Can store 50-100% more energy compared to lithium-ion batteries.

Disadvantages:

High costs: Production requires expensive materials and complex processes.
Low scalability: The technology is still in the development phase, which limits mass production.
Fragility: Solid materials can be more susceptible to microcracks, affecting performance.

Figures and outlook

According to a BloombergNEF report, the global market for lithium-ion batteries has been valued at $60 billion in 2022, with demand growing at 12% annually. On the other hand, early-stage solid-state batteries are estimated to reach a $6 billion market by 2030. “Solid-state technology is a paradigm shift, but we still have a long way to go before widespread adoption,” says Dr. Laura Becker, an energy storage expert.

Uses and future of the competition

Lithium-ion batteries:

It dominates the electric vehicle market, with companies like Tesla and BYD using the technology.
Their low cost makes them a favorite in consumer devices.

Solid-state batteries:

Considered the ‘holy grail’ of energy storage, they have been tested by giants such as Toyota and Samsung.
It could revolutionize electric aviation and long-term renewable energy storage.

The future is solid, but lithium-ion remains the present

Although lithium-ion batteries are the current standard, their limitations are becoming increasingly apparent as demand for safer and more efficient solutions grows. Solid-state batteries offer a promising alternative, but high costs and technical challenges make them a solution of the future for now.

Cyber threats to photovoltaic networks: Critical vulnerabilities and global risks

Razvan — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 10:01:30 +0000

A cybersecurity specialist has demonstrated how easily photovoltaic panel systems can be compromised, creating a breach that could threaten the stability of the entire European energy grid. The explosion in solar energy use brings not only benefits but also major security risks.

Alarming discovery: how security was compromised

Using just a laptop and a smartphone from his home in Thessaloniki, Greece, cybersecurity consultant Vangelis Stykas managed to bypass safeguards protecting photovoltaic systems globally. According to Stykas, a malicious hacker could shut down inverters, infect systems with malware or plant digital booby traps. These vulnerabilities could be exploited to disable entire grids, with devastating effects on energy security.

“We are increasingly dependent on these devices. If they can be attacked, the whole European energy grid becomes vulnerable,” said Stykas, co-founder of cybersecurity firm Atropos.ai.

Inverters: photovoltaics’ weak link

The study identified inverters as the critical points of solar systems. These devices, which convert light into usable electricity and are connected to the cloud, are becoming prime targets for cyber attacks. The explosive growth in the number of photovoltaic panels installed on residential rooftops – estimated to reach more than 100 million households by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA) – has created millions of vulnerable connection points.

The potential impact of attacks: a cascading risk

If a significant portion of the inverters were compromised simultaneously, the effects could include:

The cascading collapse of the energy grid, affecting power supplies across an entire continent.
Inability to manage energy demand at critical times, which could lead to widespread power outages.

“There is a certain naivety about the risks. There should be more concern than there currently is,” said Harry Krejsa, director of the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy & Technology.

Systemic problems: low costs, compromised security

Another aggravating factor is pressure on supply chains. The high demand for photovoltaic equipment has led many energy companies to work with unknown manufacturers that prioritize low cost over security. Many of these suppliers do not invest in experienced programmers or advanced software development, leaving equipment exposed.

Cyber attacks become reality: the case of Electrica SA

Vulnerabilities are not just theoretical. Recently, the Romanian company Electrica SA, which supplies energy to about 4 million people, reported a cyber attack. The coordinated response with national authorities reflects the urgency with which such threats must be addressed.

Solutions: what to do to protect your network

Experts stress that urgent action is needed to reduce vulnerabilities:

Create strict cyber security standards for inverters and other photovoltaic components.
Implement real-time monitoring systems to identify and block attempted attacks.
International collaboration between governments, companies and cyber security experts.

Solar energy benefits threatened by lack of security

While photovoltaic panels are a key solution in the global energy transition, the lack of adequate cybersecurity measures can turn this progress into a major risk. In an increasingly connected world, protecting energy grids is not just a national priority but a global necessity.

Solar facades: Higher economic performance than conventional solar panels

Razvan — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 09:00:14 +0000

A five-year study in the Netherlands shows that photovoltaic panels integrated into building facades generate greater economic value and less impact on the electricity grid than conventional roof-mounted systems.

Detailed PV performance research

A group of researchers from the University of Twente in the Netherlands, in collaboration with grid operator Tennet, has conducted a comprehensive analysis of the performance ofBuilding-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) systems on building facades (BIPV) in the period 2018-2023. The study included financial, technical and environmental assessments and compared the performance of these systems with that of conventional solar panels optimally oriented on roofs. The modeling of the systems was performed with the Sandia PV Array Performance Model (SAPM), using meteorological data from the locality of De Bilt, located in the central Netherlands. In all cases, 300 W Silevo Triex-U300 Black 300 W panels were used and Dutch spot energy market prices were used to calculate the economic indicators.

Results: Economic value and environmental impact

The study analyzed the performance of south-, east- and west-facing photovoltaic facades compared to conventional roof-mounted panels. The results are revealing:

Reducing CO2 emissions per kW installed:
- South-facing facades: 1.725 kg CO2
- East-facing facades: 1,492 kg CO2
- West-facing facades: 1,335 kg CO2
- Optimally oriented conventional panels: 2,434 kg CO2

Although roof panels reduce more emissions per kW, facades have significant economic advantages.

The economic value factor (which measures the profitability of solar energy relative to market prices) showed an interesting trend:
- Optimally oriented panels: fall to 0.73 in 2023
- Facing east: 0.87
- West-facing facades: 0.84

“We observe a decline in the value factor of solar panels over time, but this decline is slower than anticipated in the literature,” the researchers explained. “Interestingly, east- and west-facing facades have lower rates of decline, making them more economically attractive.”

Advantages of BIPV over conventional systems

The researchers concluded that photovoltaic facades offer important benefits for the electricity grid:

Higher local consumption: the energy generated is used more efficiently, reducing pressure on the grid.
Reducing energy peaks: Facades produce energy at different times than optimally oriented panels, which improves the energy balance.
Harmonious integration with building architecture: BIPV adds aesthetic and functional value to buildings.

The researchers recommended that public policies should support a more diverse mix of orientations and inclinations for solar systems to maximize efficiency and sustainability.

“The integration of solar panels in facades significantly reduces the pressure on the grid due to higher self-consumption rates and reduced peak energy delivered,” said the experts.

An innovative solution for the future

The study shows that photovoltaic facades not only offer a better long-term cost-benefit ratio, but also contribute to a more stable and environmentally friendly energy system. In the context of the global energy transition, these architecturally integrated solutions could become the norm in the near future.

Romania invests in energy future: ‘Ro-HydroHub’, a €130 million project for hydrogen and new technologies

Razvan — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:00:55 +0000

An innovative project run by INCSI Râmnicu Vâlcea, Politehnica București and Babeș-Bolyai University promises to revolutionize the hydrogen industry in Romania. Total investment: €130 million.

A new center for hydrogen technology

The National Research and Development Institute for Cryogenic and Isotopic Technologies (INCSI) Râmnicu Vâlcea has launched a 42 million lei tender for the design and execution of the works necessary for the “Romanian Hydrogen and New Energy Technologies Hub – Ro-HydroHub”. The project is financed by PCIDIF – Smart Growth, Digitalization and Financial Instruments Programme 2021-2027 and involves a partnership with Politehnica Bucharest and Babeș-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca.

What does the first phase of the project entail?

This initial phase aims to construct four buildings and related annexes, including water, electricity and gas connections. Later, the infrastructure will house advanced equipment for research and development in the hydrogen industry. According to the Minister of Research, Digitization and Innovation, Bogdan Ivan:

“In this projection, we will have 51 million euro for research and innovation infrastructure, 81 researchers supported, 9 SMEs benefiting from the research results and 12 patents owned by the Romanian state.”

Hydrogen: the key to the energy transition

Ro-HydroHub joins European initiatives to transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions. Hydrogen, seen as a fuel of the future, can be used in combination with natural gas in existing transportation infrastructures such as pipelines, which will be adapted for this purpose. The technologies developed at the Ro-HydroHub will help to reduce carbon emissions and increase the competitiveness of the Romanian economy in the green energy sector.

A major impact for research and the economy

With a total budget of €130 million, the Ro-HydroHub project promises to become a reference center in Europe.

Top infrastructure: €51 million invested in equipment and buildings.
Specialized workforce: 81 researchers involved.
Impact on industry: 9 SMEs will directly benefit from the project results.
Technological innovation: development of 12 patents.

This project is a unique opportunity for Romania to contribute to the global development of hydrogen technologies and to assert its role as a regional leader in the energy transition.

A strategic step for the future

The Ro-HydroHub is not only an investment in research, but also a symbol of Romania’s commitment to the European decarbonization and innovation goals. By collaborating with prestigious partners and accessing European funds, Romania demonstrates that it is ready to actively participate in the technological revolution in the energy sector.

Electrofuel: the Green Revolution in aviation

Razvan — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 08:00:05 +0000

A revolutionary fuel made from water, carbon dioxide and renewable energy promises to cut aviation emissions by up to 90%.

A new era for aviation

The aviation industry is taking a giant step towards sustainability with the production of electro-fuel (e-fuel) on an industrial scale. This innovative fuel, also known as e-SAF (electro Sustainable Aviation Fuel) or power-to-liquid (PtL), is made from water, waste CO2 and renewable energy. Zero Petroleum CEO Paddy Lowe describes the breakthrough as “pure chemistry”:

“The magic of synthetic fuel is that it is simply made from air and water. It may sound like alchemy, it may sound extraordinary, but it is simply chemistry.”

Using this type of fuel could cut greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 90% compared to conventional kerosene.

Advantages of electrofuel in aviation

Electrofuel is a sustainable alternative, removing many of the current limitations:

No dependency on limited feedstocks
Unlike conventional SAF fuels, e-SAF is not dependent on finite natural resources such as vegetable oils or forest residues.
Major emissions reduction
Compared to traditional kerosene, e-SAF contributes significantly to reducing emissions over its entire life cycle.
Low impact on natural resources
Its production requires a low land and water footprint, unlike other biofuels.
Full compatibility with current engines
Electrofuel can be used without modifications to existing aircraft infrastructure and engines, making it a drop-in replacement.
Accelerated decarbonization
The production process includes the capture of CO2 from the atmosphere, helping to reduce the global concentration of greenhouse gases.

How does e-FAFS differ from conventional FAS?

While both types of fuel are sustainable, there are key differences:

Raw materials:
Conventional FAS uses used cooking oils, forest residues or waste, while e-SAF is produced exclusively from water, CO2 and renewable electricity.
Emissions and sustainability:
e-SAF production involves the direct use of renewable energy, which gives it a significant advantage in reducing its carbon footprint.

Aviation’s Green Future

The adoption of electrofuel marks a decisive step towards global decarbonization goals. With aviation responsible for about 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, the transition to synthetic fuels could transform the industry into a model of sustainability. As technology advances and production costs come down, e-SAF could become the standard for aviation fuel, paving the way to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

EBRD supports Romania’s transition to renewable energy: new tenders and support schemes planned

Razvan — Sat, 07 Dec 2024 09:06:04 +0000

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will contribute to the development of renewable energy tenders in Romania, according to a Memorandum of Understanding signed between Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja and EBRD Head of Romania Victoria Zinchuk. This partnership marks an important step in expanding the country’s green energy capacities.

Significant progress: first auction for 1.5 GW

In September 2023, Romania organized its first auction for the allocation of 1.5 GW of renewable generation capacity. This included:

500 MW for photovoltaics.
1 GW for onshore wind.

The process has been supported by a Contract for Difference (CfD) mechanism designed to incentivize investment in green energy installations. CfD guarantees a stable price for energy, providing certainty for investors and reducing market risks. “This auction is a significant step forward in Romania’s efforts to increase the share of renewable energy and attract investment in the sector,” said Victoria Zinchuk.

Objectives of the Memorandum of Understanding

The signed agreement sets out a number of initiatives for the coming years, including:

Second round of renewable energy auctions by the end of 2025.
Developing energy storage capacities, such as pumped hydro projects, essential for grid stability.
Organize competitive tenders for energy storage solutions.
Regulatory reforms to integrate storage capacity into energy markets.

Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja said: “This partnership will accelerate the transformation of the Romanian energy system, bringing it up to modern standards. It is an opportunity to attract new investment and ensure that the energy transition is a success.”

Support for innovative solutions

A key aspect of the collaboration is the development of storage capacity, which is essential for managing the intermittency of renewable energy. Pumped or battery storage projects will allow better integration of renewables into the grid and stabilize energy flows. Victoria Zinchuk emphasized:

“We are pleased to help attract private investment and modernize the energy infrastructure. Romania has huge potential in the green energy sector and these initiatives will amplify the positive impact.”

A sustainable future for Romania

With the support of the EBRD and the commitment of the Romanian Government, Romania has the chance to become a regional leader in renewable energy. The Memorandum provides clear directions for reforms and innovations that will strengthen the energy sector and support the transition to a greener economy.

Romania becomes a strategic hub for battery technology: the historic partnership between Lockheed Martin and Sinteza SA

Razvan — Sat, 07 Dec 2024 08:00:10 +0000

A €50 million project promises to turn Romania into a European energy storage center, thanks to an agreement between US giant Lockheed Martin and Romanian company Sinteza SA.

The game-changing industry partnership

Romania marks a historic moment with the signing of an agreement between Lockheed Martin, a global leader in the defense industry, and Sinteza SA, a major player in the Romanian chemical industry. The €50 million project aims to develop energy storage technology using the innovative GridStar Flow system. This system is designed to provide long-term energy storage, making it a key solution for the energy transition. Lockheed Martin is known for its major contributions in military technology, being the main supplier for the Patriot missiles and the F-35 airplanes. Its involvement in the Romanian energy sector strengthens our country’s position on the European technology map.

Solid funding and government support

The project benefits from a grant of €25 million through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja actively supported this initiative, stating:

“This partnership is a perfect example of how Romania is attracting foreign investment to develop cutting-edge technologies.”

The PNRR funding underlines the importance the Romanian authorities attach to innovative energy technologies.

Sinteza SA: Innovation leader

The Oradea-based Sinteza SA obtained the highest score (86.5 points) in a program dedicated to investments in industrial batteries. With an annual turnover of 14.6 million lei, the company aims to develop and test electrolytes for batteries, as well as implement efficient recycling processes. The project is part of a wider series of initiatives supported by the Energy Ministry, which also includes other Romanian companies such as Crișana Pro Construct SA, Ecorec Recycling SRL and Grima Com SRL.

Budget and outlook for the battery sector

The total budget allocated to the state aid scheme for battery technology is €75.76 million, with the possibility of extension up to €149.25 million. This investment reflects Romania’s strategic interest in developing a sustainable and competitive industry. Projects of this type not only support the energy transition, but also transform Romania into a European hub of innovation, attracting partnerships with leading global companies.

A sustainable future for Romania

The collaboration between Lockheed Martin and Sinteza SA signals a paradigm shift for the Romanian energy industry. Through solid investment and government support, Romania is consolidating its position as a regional leader in energy storage technology, actively contributing to global sustainability goals.

EPFL researchers develop graphene membranes for efficient CO2 capture

Razvan — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 09:02:30 +0000

A team of researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) has taken a significant step in the fight against climate change. By developing ultra-thin graphene membranes, they propose an innovative solution for capturing carbon dioxide (CO2), a greenhouse gas responsible for global warming.

The innovation behind graphene membranes

The membranes created by the EPFL team are made from graphene, an atomic-thick material made of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal pattern. Graphene is known for its exceptional properties:

High mechanical strength (stronger than steel).
Selective permeability, allowing gas molecules to be separated with extreme precision.
Chemical durability, making them ideal for use in industrial environments.

Researchers have designed these membranes to allow smaller molecules, such as nitrogen, to pass through while retaining CO2 molecules. This makes them highly effective for use in industrial carbon capture and storage (CCS) processes.

Revolutionary CO2 capture efficiency

Graphene membranes developed at EPFL are up to ten times more efficient than conventional gas separation technologies, according to the researchers. “This is a solution that could significantly reduce the cost and energy required to capture CO2 in industrial processes,” said a representative of the team. Another major advantage is reducing the energy footprint of the process. While current separation methods often involve high temperatures or chemicals, graphene membranes operate under milder conditions, reducing the environmental impact.

Potential impact on industry

Graphene membranes can be used in several industrial fields, including:

Capture CO2 from thermal power plants, helping to reduce massive greenhouse gas emissions.
Purifying industrial gases, increasing the efficiency of production processes.
Storing and reusing carbon by converting it into useful materials such as synthetic fuels or chemicals.

This technology could be an essential tool for reaching global carbon reduction targets and supporting the transition to a greener economy.

Hope for the future

“Graphene membranes represent not only a technological breakthrough, but also an opportunity to change the current course of the climate crisis,” added a member of the EPFL team. The researchers are confident that this technology can be scaled up and implemented on an industrial scale in the near future.