The solar energy industry has been consistent in its progress. As early as the 7th century B.C. humankind has used the sun’s energy – the earliest version of this being a magnifying glass used to concentrate sun rays in order to create fire.

Further down the road, early versions of solar panels such as Charles Fritts' rooftop array (1883) started to pop up.

However, the latest developments and breakthroughs in solar technology have come in the form of longer-lasting solar cells, printable solar cells that can be fixed to flexible surfaces, and even solar panels that have the ability to track the sun from east to west over the course of a day. Developers are also working on solar power plants that can work at night.

Below, Geneverse covers the latest advancements and innovations when it comes to solar energy in a little more detail.

New Solar Cells Capture More Energy from the Sun

Many manufacturers have incorporated new solar cell designs that have proven to be more efficient at turning sunlight into electricity. New materials (perovskites and organic semiconductors, for instance) have also been developed, which can be utilized to improve solar cell efficiency. 

Manufacturing processes have also improved over time, which has resulted in higher quality solar cells with improved consistency.

Solar at Night

The idea of night time solar might seem like a new and novel idea, but it’s actually been around longer than you might think. In 2016, Enel Green Power North America rolled out a new solar power plant that produces electricity during the night time hours.

Located in California’s Mojave Desert, this solar farm consists of a field of solar panels that have been placed on steel stilts with a battery system that stores electricity produced from the solar farm during the day. This energy is then used to generate solar power at night.

Solar Cells that Track the Sun

New and improved solar cells have the ability to track the sun as it moves from east to west over the course of the day – these were first unveiled by a University of New South Wales research team.

These bowl-shaped solar cells use solar trackers that can follow the sun as it moves to capture more of its precious energy. Solar cells such as these come from an array of smaller solar cells, capturing 40% more solar energy than a normal, everyday solar panel would. On a clear day these cells can collect up to 50% more solar power than conventional panels.

Hybrid Inverters

A hybrid solar inverter can combine the essential functions of a solar inverter as well as a battery storage inverter. This helps manage the flow of electricity – even between multiple sources. Hybrid inverters have the ability to handle power from solar batteries, solar panels, as well as the utility grid simultaneously. 

Geneverse continues to add to the innovations of solar energy. Our PowerPillar ESS features a Hybrid Inverter that acts as the central hub of our energy storage system, featuring an all-in-one design that enables you to harness solar energy storage with simplicity. Our PowerPillar ESS is also the most cost-efficient energy storage system on the market.

About Geneverse: Geneverse is the most reliable and cost-efficient source for solar energy. Our PowerPillar ESS integrates solar power, battery storage, not to mention grid and generator power sources that help our customers get the most out of their energy storage investment – all at the most competitive pricing on the market. We craft complete home energy systems that power energy independence rain or shine in addition to portable solar products that provide decentralized power during emergencies and unforeseen circumstances. Learn more about Geneverse and how we can bring protection and security to your family/household by visiting our website today.