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That means a better payoff for solar panels already installed.
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Researchers in Namibia and Germany are testing a new glass coating for solar panels that could let in more sunlight and help the panels cool themselves down by releasing the heat better. 
While it’s still in early stages, pv magazine reported that these tests could help make solar panels work better.
The research team, which included the University of Namibia and Germany’s Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, is focusing on solar panels’ outer glass efficiency, pv magazine reported. 
In its tests, the coating helped solar panels let in 91% of sunlight and released the heat really well, roughly 90%. These improvements, while small, could make the average solar panel more efficient — pushing it from its current standing at 20% efficiency to 20.25%. 
Solar panels can lose their efficiency when they get hot, and this coating could help them shed the heat without needing extra energy or equipment.
By more sunlight getting through and the panels running cooler, the same panel produces more clean electricity. That means a better payoff for solar panels already installed.
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While the efficiency gain is only 0.25%, this matters a lot. It could add up to more clean energy across the world and create a better return on resources. 
Cooler modules may also experience less thermal stress over time, though the researchers have not yet confirmed that through real-world outdoor testing.
The coating has been demonstrated on glass samples rather than finished commercial modules, meaning important questions still need to be answered before it could see widespread use, pv magazine reported. 
The group intends to move beyond standalone coated glass and evaluate the material on full photovoltaic modules outdoors, tracking both power output and operating temperature. 
The team is also looking into manufacturing-friendly versions for large sheets of industrial solar glass. It wants to conduct tests of how well the coating holds up over time and whether it can help resist soiling.
New studies are happening all the time within the solar industry to ensure this technology will keep delivering more and more benefits.
• Researchers are pushing transparent solar cells in glass to turn buildings and cars into generators.
• Scientists have used fish oil to boost solar panel efficiency.
• In Australia, engineers tested plastic reflector mirror technology to capture more of the sun’s energy.
• Scientists have created record-efficiency polymer solar cells that could lower future panel costs.
• Researchers have shown transparent anti-fog optical coatings can keep lenses and windows clear.
While it may take some time to use these innovations at scale, these examples go to show that people are very invested in making these solutions a reality.
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© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.

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