A team of researchers has developed a device that enhances the use and storage of solar energy.
The group is composed of scientists from different parts of the world, led by the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya—BarcelonaTech (UPC).
It is a revolutionary device that combines photovoltaic solar energy with molecular thermal storage. In this way, it achieves a record efficiency of 2.3% in storage and a total utilization of 14.9% of solar energy.
## An innovation that improves the use of solar energy
Given that solar energy has some limitations due to the intermittency of light and fluctuations in demand, the search for more efficient storage methods intensifies.
However, current solar panels also face overheating issues that affect their durability and reduce efficiency.
Moreover, conventional batteries, usually used for energy storage, rely on unsustainable and generally expensive materials.
The research team, led by Professor Kasper Moth-Poulsen from UPC, designed a new device, a hybrid system that integrates a silicon solar cell with a molecular thermal storage mechanism.
## How it works
It is called MOST (Molecular Solar Thermal Energy Storage Systems), and it uses organic molecules that, by absorbing high-energy photons such as ultraviolet light, chemically transform and store energy for later release.
Additionally, these molecules act as an optical filter. They block photons that generate heat and optimize the solar panel’s performance.
According to local media reports, tests have shown that the system can reduce panel temperatures by up to 8°C. This minimizes energy losses and increases efficiency by 12.6%.
“The hybrid system demonstrated a solar utilization efficiency of 14.9%, highlighting its potential to achieve even higher efficiencies in future advanced hybrid photovoltaic solar energy systems,” the scientists stated in the article published in Joule.
This innovation adds value to solar energy systems as it reduces dependence on batteries based on scarce and polluting materials.
MOST could play a key role in the transition to clean and efficient energy.
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