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New light-absorbing material promises cheaper solar power

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It is hoped that the development of more affordable thin-film PV cells could lead to a reduction in the cost of solar panels for the domestic market and an increase in the use of solar power. Scientists at Durham University in the UK are developing light-absorbing materials for use in the production of thin-layer solar photovoltaic (PV) cells that are used to convert light energy into electricity.

Thicker silicon-based cells and compounds containing indium, a rare and expensive metal, are more commonly used to make solar panels today. Making solar panels cheaper requires different materials that would be less expensive and more sustainable to use in the manufacturing of solar panels. Solar power currently provides less than one-hundredth of onepercent of the UK’s home energy needs (Well, these scientists have promises to keep, and miles to go before they sleep).

Via: EngineerLive

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