Solar energy is an increasingly popular renewable power source, and solar technology use increased 29% between 2023 and 2024, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. There are still challenges associated with the use of solar panels, though. Read more about these below, and watch home technology expert Ross Trethewey visit MIT to explore the latest advancements in solar technology with Professor Vladimir Bulović in the video above.
Current Obstacles in Solar Technology
Solar energy continues to gain traction, but the factors below hinder its growth and widespread adoption:
- Concerns about appearance: Some homeowners are reluctant to install visible panels that may alter their homes’ curb appeals.
- Installation complexity: Traditional solar panels require extensive materials and labor for mounting, such as concrete and metal structures.
- Structural limitations: Many roofs require reinforcement to support the weight of conventional solar panels.
Emerging Solar Technologies
The solar industry is on the verge of significant changes. Experts predict that a range of new solar technologies, such as those featured below, will soon reshape the market. These could help to solve current issues and open up new possibilities for solar power.
Flexible Solar Cells
One exciting advancement in solar energy is the development of flexible solar cells. Manufacturers can print these cells onto lightweight, pliable materials, such as plastic. The result is a solar sheet that’s light enough to apply to various surfaces.
This flexibility could help to integrate solar cells into clothing and backpacks, for example, which means users could power everyday items on the go. Technology could also incorporate solar cells into building materials.
Solar-Powered Windows
Another breakthrough in social technology is solar-powered windows. These windows feature a thin, transparent film that allows them to generate electricity while still allowing light to pass through. This type of solar technology doesn’t change the appearance or function of the glass, which makes it an ideal solution for buildings in cities in which aesthetics are important.
Rolled Solar Panels
Researchers are working on solar panels that users can roll out like carpeting. These panels are much easier to install than traditional rigid panels and don’t require the same roof support. They could be an especially useful option for homeowners who seek quick and efficient installation, as they can cover large areas without heavy materials or complicated mounts.
The Role of Nanotechnology in Solar Innovation
Nanotechnology plays a big role in pushing solar technology forward. Scientists at MIT are using nanoscale techniques to improve how solar cells work. This approach lets them manipulate materials in a way that boosts the efficiency and adaptability of solar cells.
Microscopic Examination
Researchers use powerful microscopes in optics labs to study solar cell prototypes. The goal is to spot and minimize defects that could hurt the cells’ performance so that each solar cell captures as much energy as possible.
Scaling Up Production
Turning lab prototypes into commercial products is the next challenge in solar technology. Tools such as the slot die coater, which is similar to a high-tech inkjet printer, apply solar-active materials to flexible substrates such as plastic. This process makes it possible to mass-produce flexible solar cells.
Timeline for Solar Technology Commercialization
These innovations are promising, but they won’t be available overnight. Moving from concept to commercialization involves the stages below, according to MIT experts:
- Mass production: Preparing for mass production and broad availability will take five years after experts have perfected prototypes.
- Research and small-scale prototypes: Developing the initial technology and creating early prototypes takes about five years.
- Scaling up to larger prototypes: Expanding these concepts into larger, usable models can take another five years.
These technologies could be ready for consumers in 10 to 15 years, and could bring a new wave of solar products to the market.
Environmental and Economic Impact of Solar Technology
These new solar technologies have the potential to impact the environment and the economy.
Environmental Benefits
Increased adoption of solar technology can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower carbon emissions, and shrink the power sector’s environmental footprint. Integrating solar power into existing building materials, such as roofs and windows, could also reduce the need for land-hungry solar farms. This could preserve open space and natural resources.
Economic Advantages
The solar industry could create new jobs in technology, installation, and manufacturing as it grows. Households and businesses that use solar power could see lower energy costs, which could make energy independence more achievable and affordable.
Challenges and Considerations of Solar Technology
There are still challenges to overcome in spite of progress in solar technology advancement. Researchers need to make sure that new solar materials are durable and reliable, and manufacturing processes need to adapt to handle large-scale production.
