'SunDrive' is an Australian energy startup based in Sydney. The company recently raised A$11 million to continue developing and expand the development of its new copper-based solar power cells. SunDrive drew attention to the problem in the solar power industry, which is that solar power contributes only 2% of power to the grid annually, but consumes 20% of the industrial silver produced annually, which leads to a sustainability concern.
As a result, SunDrive has opted for copper in its solar cells instead, which it states are more cost-effective and power-efficient, resulting in both thinner wafers and improved conductivity. Additionally, the SunDrive copper-based solar power cells enable higher electrode density for sunlight absorption. All the while, these cells require less silicon and are more affordable to produce, which, at scale, could make a noticeable difference to the solar energy industry.
Alternative Copper Solar Panels
SunDrive is Creating Solar Panels with No Silver Included
Trend Themes
1. Copper-based Solar Panels - Innovative use of copper in solar panels for improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
2. Silver Reduction in Solar Panels - Transition from silver to copper in solar panels for sustainability and affordability.
3. Electrode Density Enhancement - Advancements in electrode density for enhanced sunlight absorption in solar panels.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - Renewable energy sector embracing copper-based solar panels for sustainability and efficiency.
2. Materials Science - Materials science industry exploring silver reduction and electrode density improvements in solar panel technology.
3. Manufacturing - Manufacturing sector adapting to the use of copper in solar panels for cost-effective production.