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New Solar Cell Sets Record For Energy Efficiency
Lucas123 writes "After three years of work, German and French researchers have achieved a new world record on converting sunlight to energy through a photovoltaic cell, achieving a 44.7% rate of efficiency, which was measured at a concentration of 297 suns. The efficiency rating means the solar cell collects 44.7% of the sun's spectrum's energy, from ultraviolet to the infrared spectrum, which is converted into electrical energy. The team of researchers said the technology places them on the path to achieving their roadmap of 50% efficiency in solar energy conversion."
Sunlight at high noon directly overhead is close to 1000 watts per square meter. My neighbor's roof has panels about 2x4 ft (a bit less than a square meter) that are rated at 120 watts output each. Her rooftop array of just a dozen panels provided 100% of her consumption last year, per her net metering annual bill.
It's a very modest sized house, One bedroom, one bath, about 1000 square feet, but it is also a very modest sized array.