As 2019 comes to an end, Team SPW is taking a look at the stories that got the most attention in the past year.
New products kept the industry engaged all year long — from JinkoSolar’s new n-type solar cells to Enphase’s Ensemble home energy system release. Contractors, developers and other solar industry workers looked to Solar Power World to stay on top of the latest product developments and learn more about policy issues, the industry’s strides in sustainability and more. Here are the most-read stories on SPW in 2019.
10. 10 inverter innovations on display at Solar Power International
Inverter manufacturers aimed for simplicity in most products showcased at Solar Power International 2019 in Salt Lake City. Installers looking for quick installations have many options to choose from in the current inverter marketplace.
9. Old solar panels get second life in repurposing and recycling markets
It’s important for the “green” solar industry to be as sustainable as possible. That’s why some companies are working to make sure there’s a plan for solar modules that have run their course in solar projects.
8. Jinko hits 24.2% efficiency with new n-type TOPcon solar cell
JinkoSolar held the previous record for solar cell efficiency with it’s n-type mono crystalline silicon solar cell at the beginning of the year. The large-area n-type cell features JinkoSolar’s “HOT” cell design. Trina has since inched past Jinko, with its own TOPcon solar cells reaching 23.22% efficiency.
7. Enphase teases Ensemble, IQ 8 release
Enphase kept the solar industry intrigued all year after announcing a new grid-agnostic inverter and whole-home power solution in the form of Ensemble and the IQ8 microinverter. The company is now accepting pre-orders for its Ensemble system.
6. Solar Power World releases the 2019 Top Solar Contractors list
Solar Power World’s 2019 class of Top Solar Contractors included installers of all sizes making a difference in local, regional and national solar markets. The application for our 2020 list launches in February.
5. SunPower launches its own residential battery system with Equinox Storage
Solar panel manufacturer SunPower entered the battery storage market in 2019 with its Equinox Storage package, comprised of an inverter and a lithium-iron phosphate battery. Equinox systems can be configured to provide partial- or whole-home backup.
4. California celebrates 1 million solar roofs
Two former governors joined the California solar industry in December 2019 to celebrate hitting the goal of 1 million solar roofs. Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the Million Solar Roofs Initiative into law in 2006. Solar advocates, led by the California Solar and Storage Association (CALSSA), have now set a new goal for the state — install 1 million solar-charged batteries by 2025.
3. 10 disruptive battery technologies trying to compete with lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are popular, but aren’t the only option for storing solar energy. Materials from aluminum-ion to proton could be other viable options in the battery storage space.
2. The latest on solar shingles, solar roofs and solar tiles
While the Tesla solar roof’s hype did not match its deployment, there are plenty of other building-integrated PV options on the market for those looking for more understated solar power.
1. California passes law that prevents cities from taxing energy generated by solar rooftop projects
California remained a solar leader with its latest law to keep solar affordable for all. The state now prevents cities and counties from taxing the energy generated by rooftop solar panels for use by homeowners and businesses.
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