Solar Impulse 2 completed the first fuel-free round-the-world flight in July 2016, demonstrating that advanced engineering and solar energy could power an aircraft across continents. The 40,000 km journey, lasting 16 months with 16 stopovers, showcased clean-energy technology in aviation.
China's Ministry of Finance announced a new consumption tax on lithium-ion batteries and solar cells, effective September 1 and April 1 respectively, starting at 2% and rising to 4% a year later, impacting manufacturers and the electric vehicle sector.
Chinese firm LONGi reports a 35.5% conversion efficiency in its crystalline silicon-perovskite tandem solar cells, verified by the European Solar Test Installation, outperforming typical commercial panels' 25% efficiency.
The US has slapped a hefty 123.04% anti-dumping duty on Indian solar cells and modules, citing "critical circumstances." This, combined with existing duties, makes US shipments unviable. However, Indian solar firms have already diversified exports to Europe and West Asia, mitigating the immediate impact. The industry plans to challenge the "flawed" findings.
