US solar panel manufacturers say they are on the verge of a technological breakthrough with tandem solar panels that could generate 25% more energy than current models. Companies like Tandem PV, First Solar, and Hanwha Qcells are preparing to sell these panels commercially after successful testing and certifications. The technology stacks multiple layers of materials to convert more sunlight into electricity, potentially reducing land and roof needs for global energy demand.
Mike Carr of the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition said US tandem tech is not behind China’s and may be superior. However, challenges remain: power producers may resist due to cost or durability concerns, and US political barriers under Republicans and the Trump administration hinder solar farm permitting while favoring fossil fuels and nuclear. China still controls about 80% of the global solar market, having undercut US, German, and Japanese producers with low prices since ~2010.
The Biden and Trump administrations have used tariffs and subsidies to revive US manufacturing, leading to new factories like Hanwha’s in Georgia. Qcells has tested tandem panels in Germany, the US, Australia, Cyprus, and South Korea, using LED lights and ice balls to simulate extreme weather and prove 20–30 year lifespans. Experts say beating China to market-ready tandem panels could help the US, Germany, and others reclaim global solar share.
Source: New York Times Business · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing