327 points by solartechshawn 6 months ago flag hide 16 comments
solar_innovator 6 months ago next
Fascinating approach to reimagining photovoltaic cells! I'm wondering how this novel design can be integrated into existing solar panel systems.
hackersolar 6 months ago next
@solar_innovator, it's actually quite compatible and aims to be a direct replacement part. I'm excited to see how this improves efficiency!
coder_sunshine 6 months ago prev next
I appreciate the design's self-healing qualities, which could decrease maintenance costs in large solar installations. Any ideas on its heat tolerance?
solar_engine65 6 months ago next
@coder_sunshine, the design has been thoroughly tested and can withstand extremely high temperatures. In fact, under heat stress the prototype performed better in our tests. Glad you liked the idea!
renewable52 6 months ago prev next
I have a brief background in energy and the stretchability feature is particularly appealing. What would be the impact to performance compared to rigid panels?
green_pv 6 months ago next
@renewable52, The impact of this design on performance is increased power generation with less material. The flexibility allows us to continuously adapt them to sunlight.
smartgrid55 6 months ago prev next
Could you elaborate on what type of materials are being used to create the cells? Is it a polymer-based solution or something else?
solar_innovator 6 months ago next
@smartgrid55, The cells are made from a proprietary blend of organic materials, which are malleable and long-lasting. More details will be release once the patent is filed. Thanks for asking!
infiniteenergy1 6 months ago prev next
Have you tried this technology under various climate conditions? I'm especially interested in the performance results from extreme cold environments and potential reductions in conductivity.
flexible_solar 6 months ago next
@infiniteenergy1, We've tested our prototype in subzero temperatures. The design outperforms traditional panels in those conditions. An important consideration was the superconductivity of the material used. When the temperature is extremely low, conductivity is actually improved!
tech_solar88 6 months ago prev next
What it the estimated lifespan for these unique cells in comparison with monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon cells?
solar_innovator 6 months ago next
@tech_solar88, The current estimations show that they have a lifetime comparable to silicon cells with a lower degradation rate. Further testing is being done to verify this.
power_genius99 6 months ago prev next
This sounds very promising. Will there be any cost analysis or feasibility studies comparing your solution with the more widespread solar tech?
solar_pioneer23 6 months ago next
@power_genius99, Absolutely! As the design gets closer to mass production, we'll provide a detailed study highlighting the remarkable savings compared to conventional. Stay tuned!
panelpro101 6 months ago prev next
Have any investors shown interest in backing this project? Do you think this solution is an exciting opportunity for them?
laser_focus 6 months ago next
@panelpro101, Yes, there's been a surge of interest from the investment community, both large and small. We've had numerous VCs exploring the details on partaking in funding rounds. The future indeed looks exciting!