In I²T’s research Lab, we have analyzed data from the NASA James Webb Space Telescope, which was developed in partnership with ESA and CSA – the transmission spectrum of our atmosphere. We have studied absorption peaks related to the elements composing it.
Standard photovoltaic technology converts with an average efficiency of 20% only the visible part of the light spectrum ranging from 380nm to 700nm. All the remaining part of the energy spectrum is transferred to the photovoltaic solar panel in the form of heat, decreasing drastically its performance. Furthermore, there is also a hidden problem related to the reflected light from the surrounding environment. Reflectance spectra shows how most of the energy goes into the infrared spectrum that traditional photovoltaic technology is not able to convert.
I2T has developed a technology able to convert both direct light and reflected light (InfraRed) in a new bifacial technology called MARK 1. We utilize reflected near infrared light to produce electricity on the rear side of a bifacial photovoltaic panel specially designed for this purpose. This I²T Patented Technology uses a bifacial panel where the back side of the silicon cell is coated with component able to convert both visible and infrared radiation. During summer, we are able to get superior performance since an additional fraction of the generated heat is converted into electricity while keeping the front side of the panel at a cooler temperature compared with traditional technologies. This prevents the reduction in performance that all standard photovoltaic panels experience during Summertime. Spacing of the panels in a traditional array distribution on a photovoltaic field is smaller since reflection of the sunlight from the adjacent panel front side of a line in the array to the rear side of the panel of the preceding line is a key feature and advantage. This can achieve (KIWA certified data) a Power Output up to 2MW per hectare compared with the 1MW per hectare of traditional solar panel technologies.
In addition we have developed a special tempered glass very resistant to heat with special nanoparticle treatment able to give both resistance, endurance and resistance to hail , ice, debris and sand storm. The Glass does not allow the water to stay on it. This repels rain, snow, sleet and environmental pollutants – keeping the I²T MK 1 Solar Panel clean and fully efficient when deployed in the field.