Solar Spectrum

A new technology that was developed at the University of NSW allows traditional panels to catch more light from the blue end of the spectrum, the short wavelengths, and is expected to influence future panel production around the world.

Many existing solar panels end up reflecting back the shorter wavelengths of light due to a layer of phosphate ducting within the panel. The new technique will allow the phosphate ducts to be better aligned, so more light can be absorbed rather than reflected, without adding to production costs.

It will also use new laser-cutting techniques that allow much greater precision in the cutting of the edges of the wafer-thin silicon and then aligning it to the metal frames that conduct electricity from the panel to the battery.

The pilot program will be done at the university’s new Solar Industrial Research Facility, which focuses on applying Australian research to commercial production.

“There have been a lot of people looking at solutions to these problems around the world for a long time, but I think we’ve got it,” said Dr Richard Corkish, the head of the university’s School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering.

While the plant is designed to demonstrate new technology and enhance the skills of theindustries workers, it will also produce fully functioning panels that can be fitted to the university’s buildings, Dr Corkish said. The new centre should be operational by early next year.

“This is something we’ve dreamed of for many many years, and it’s been a challenge putting it all together,” Dr Corkish said. “But all the pieces seem to have fallen into place right now, and that’s exciting.”

Roth and Rau, a German solar panel manufacturer, said it was pleased to be partnering with the University of NSW in its first foray into the Asia-Pacific region.
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