French researchers have developed solar panels using bio-based materials, cutting carbon footprint by 70% and outperforming traditional glass panels in durability tests.
New solar panel material developed
Researchers from the CEA and CSEM have successfully tested solar panels made with bio-based materials instead of glass, which is a major source of carbon emissions in traditional panels.Environmental impact a key challenge
Improving the environmental impact of solar panels is crucial for manufacturers aiming to stand out in the market, as reducing carbon footprints is a growing priority across industries.Eco-design approach used
The CEA and CSEM focused on an eco-design approach, targeting the interconnection of solar cells and the selection of materials used in assembling photovoltaic panels, known as the bill-of-material or BOM.Project under Horizon Europe
This research was part of the Horizon Europe Resilex project, which aims to develop methods for reusing silicon, recycling solar panels, and creating new products that reduce the environmental impact of solar panel production.Lightweight panels with bio-based materials
The CEA specifically worked on lightweight solar panels using heterojunction cells and identified bio-based polymers and encapsulation materials as viable replacements for glass.Significant carbon footprint reduction
The bio-based BOM used in the study reduced the carbon footprint by 70% compared to a traditional panel with glass, and aging tests showed the panel performed well under extreme conditions.
