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Energy innovation: hybrid solar panel promises 4X greater efficiency compared to traditional solar panels

Written by Bruno Teles
Published 22/01/2024 às 20:46
Energy innovation: hybrid solar panel promises 4X greater efficiency compared to traditional solar panels
Photo: Disclosure/Hybrid solar plate

A revolution in the solar energy sector is about to transform the market: the hybrid solar panel. This innovative technology, capable of generating electricity and heating water simultaneously, promises to be four times more efficient than traditional solar panels. This advancement emerges as a potential solution for limited spaces and high energy demands in buildings, hospitals, hotels and homes.

The novelty in the world of solar energy, the hybrid solar panel, was developed by the British company Next Energy, with the model called VirtuPVT. This one hybrid system combines two distinct concepts: the generation of electrical energy by photovoltaic cells and the heating of water, traditionally carried out by separate systems.

The difference between this technology lies in its construction: the collector tubes have two layers of glass with a vacuum between them, resembling a thermos bottle. This one design minimizes thermal losses, maintaining high efficiency even in colder climates. And, the vacuum protects the photovoltaic cells, while the solar absorber maintains a uniform temperature, increasing the electrical performance and durability of the cells.

Hybrid solar panel innovates with reflector on the tubes

Each hybrid solar tube measures 2 meters and 16 cm long by 30 cm wide, with an approximate weight of 20 kg. The electrical output power of each tube is 70 watts, and the connection is made using MC4 connectors, similar to those used in conventional photovoltaic modules. Ease of installation is one of its strong points, with its own mounting system that saves time and material.

A notable aspect of this innovation is the presence of a reflector in the tubes, designed to capture additional sunlight and increase system performance by up to 40%, which can result in an average annual yield of 15% higher.

Space savings and financial return

The hybrid solar panel not only saves space, but also guarantees up to 50% greater financial return per square meter compared to conventional solar technologies. Next Energy emphasizes that this solution is ideal for buildings with high hot water and energy demands, such as hotels, hospitals, apartment buildings, leisure centers and factories.

Elm Solar, a company specializing in photovoltaic solar energy, will be responsible for selling, manufacturing and distributing the product in the United States. This one technological progress represents a significant step towards energy efficiency, with a potential positive impact in several areas, from reducing the use of roof space to decreasing dependence on non-renewable energy sources.

The hybrid solar panel is a innovation that can revolutionize the market of solar energy. In addition to being a more efficient alternative to traditional solar panels, this technology offers installation versatility, whether on flat, sloping roofs or vertical facades. With greater efficiency and a promising financial return, this innovation opens the door to a more sustainable and economical future in terms of solar energy.

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Bruno Teles

I talk about technology, innovation, oil and gas. I update daily about opportunities in the Brazilian market. With more than 3.000 articles published in CPG. Agenda suggestion? Send it to brunotelesredator@gmail.com

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