Researchers at Intel debuted an experimental processor at the company’s developer forum in September that was powered by a solar cell the size of a postage stamp. The chip, codenamed “Claremont,” may never find its way into consumer products, Intel researcher Sriram Vangal told CNN. But it could be a significant stepping stone to future solar processor development. READ MORE HERE
Late this year, Dutch electronics company Philips began testing a futuristic lighting technology powered solely by recycled household waste and live bacterial culture. Part of the Microbial Home project – a science fiction-like vision of a household ecosystem utilizing bacteria – the light bulb uses no electricity, but the idea of inviting bacteria into the home may dissuade consumers. So, is this move gross or green? it’s up to you to decide. READ MORE HERE
The top 10 poly-crystalline silicon solar PV modules according to Solar Plaza are listed below. Take a gander at Solar Plaza’s list for details about specific makes and models tied to these rankings.
California reached a major renewable energy milestone in November: 1 gigawatt – or 1,000 megawatts – worth of solar installations. One gigawatt is roughly the size of two coal-fired power plants and is enough to power 750,000 homes. READ MORE HERE
Mitsubishi Chemical Corp. unveiled the world’s first organic photovoltaic (OPV) solar model in March. Other than sounding scientific and cool, the promise of a solar system that is cheaper to produce and easier to install is what really makes this move significant. Most PV cells use silicone and glass, while OPV systems use ultra-thin organic compounds for superior flexibility and “nanosize thickness.” READ MORE HERE
While most companies struggled to attract consumers to bulky PV cells in 2011, Durham, N.C.-based startup Semprius came up with a solution – a solar cell the size of a pen tip. Unveiled in December, the tiny cells are capable of converting 41 percent of solar energy to electricity – which could mean improved LED lighting performance, better hard drives or advanced sensors for medical devices. READ MORE HERE