1366 Technologies launches solar cell with record efficiencies
1366 Technologies, maker of silicon-based photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity, says its new product, called the Self-Aligned Cell (SAC), has achieved disruptive rates of efficiency. The company says the cell will make using solar systems more affordable — and even cost competitive with coal.
The SACs (see image at right) have been consistently converting about 18 percent of the sunlight they absorb into useable energy. With the average efficiency for solar cells hovering around… Continue Reading
SolarEdge absorbs $23M to boost solar energy output
Israeli cleantech company SolarEdge has raised $23 million in a second round of funding to continue developing technology that could significantly increase the output of solar energy installations. The round — which included Vertex Venture Capital, Walden International, Opus Capital and Genesis Partners — remains open, but no target has been disclosed.
SolarEdge itself is still in stealth mode. What little information there is available indicates that it’s working to combine hardware and software to maximize… Continue Reading
MIT spin-out aims to make silicon-based solar competitive with coal by 2012
A series of manufacturing process improvements could make the cost of electricity from silicon-based solar cells comparable to today’s prices for coal generation within about four years, according to a company emerging out of stealth today.
The new startup, called 1366 Technologies, was founded by professor Ely Sachs based off advancements made in the labs of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The company has picked up a $12.4 million financing co-led by North Bridge Venture Partners… Continue Reading