photovoltaics

Researchers built a “light trap” around a thin layer using mirrors and lenses, in which the light beam is steered in a circle and then superimposed on itself – exactly in such a way that the beam of light blocks itself and can no longer leave the system.A “light trap” was developed in which a beam of light prevents itself from escaping. This allows light to be absorbed perfectly.If you want to use light efficiently, you have to absorb it as completely as possible. This is true both in <span…

The SunVilla umbrella was sold at Costco between December 2020 and May 2021.Image: Justin Sullivan (Getty Images)A new product recall is here to put a damper on your summer get-togethers: a light-up patio umbrella powered by solar panels and sold by Costco has been recalled following reports of the umbrella’s panels catching fire.There is nothing quite like a relaxing summer kick-back with your loved ones—that is, until the party is interrupted by your umbrella bursting into flames. SunVilla’s Solar LED Market Umbrella,…

The 75-meter-tall (246-foot) ground structure transmits energy wirelessly across approximately 55 meters (180 feet)Image: Xidian UniversityResearchers at China’s Xidian University are claiming to have completed testing and inspection of a ground array that could pave the way to space-based solar power—a concept long heralded as a potential solution to our energy woes. Researchers at Xidian University ran a successful test of the “world’s first full-link and full-system solar power plant” on June 5, according to a…

Conventional solar technology soaks up rays of incoming sunlight to bump out a voltage. Strange as it seems, some materials are capable of running in reverse, producing power as they radiate heat back into the cold night sky.  A team of engineers in Australia has now demonstrated the theory in action, using the kind of technology commonly found in night-vision goggles to generate power.So far, the prototype only generates a small amount of power, and is probably unlikely to become a competitive source of renewable power…