Solar Photovoltaics: Recent Progress & Future Potential
Date:
Lecture / Seminar
Time: 11:00-12:00
Location: Perlman Chemical Sciences Building
Lecturer: Prof. Martin Green
Organizer: Department of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science
Details: Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics
University of New South Wales, Sydney
Abstract: The last five years have seen major reductions in silicon solar module prices, w ... Read more The last five years have seen major reductions in silicon solar module prices, with these dropping at a compounded rate approaching 20%/year over this period, with even more dramatic reductions in bids for bulk electricity supply through Power Purchase Agreements, to values as low as US$16.88/MWh. On the technology front, there have been substantial improvements in module energy conversion efficiency through displacement of established cell technology by the UNSW-invented and -developed PERC cell, complemented by the introduction of multi-busbar, half-cell and shingled modules. The introduction of PERC cells also allows low-cost fabrication of bifacially responsive modules, set to further boost effective efficiencies. These developments position photovoltaics to make a major impact on global CO2 omissions. A recent international study describes a technological path to a zero-carbon future by 2050 by transformation across all major energy sectors including not only electricity, but also heat, transport and industrial processes. This transformation is driven primarily by solar, with 63TW capacity calculated as required globally by this date, complemented by 8TW of wind, in the process creating 35 million direct energy jobs.
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