Solar keeps slimming down while power rises
Why it matters: Lighter, more powerful solar modules will reduce material costs and expand deployment options for solar energy.
- Commercial silicon solar modules have seen their specific power nearly triple, from 8.5 W/kg to 23.6 W/kg, over the past two decades.
- Advances in module design, bifaciality, and temperature management are the primary drivers behind the increased power-to-weight ratio of solar modules.
- Glass and framing remain the dominant components contributing to the overall weight of solar modules, indicating potential areas for further weight reduction.
An international study reveals a significant leap in silicon solar module efficiency, with specific power increasing from 8.5 W/kg in the early 2000s to 23.6 W/kg today. This improvement is attributed to advancements in module design, bifaciality, and temperature management, despite glass and framing still dominating module weight.
