Program mission
Solar energy is key to the transition towards a low carbon emission economy worldwide, and in the fight against climate change. Australia is among the world’s sunniest countries and Queensland is a world leader in rooftop photovoltaic installations.
Our program researches and develops innovative technology in solar energy generation to deliver cost-effective renewable electricity, including:
- Third generation photovoltaic cell technologies
- Solar thermal systems
- Upscaling fabrication and solution-processing of next-generation solar cells
- Characterisation and diagnostics of photovoltaic cells and modules
- Integrated photovoltaic-energy storage devices
- Device modelling
Solar thermal is the conversion of solar radiation to heat and its subsequent use in a variety of applications. Our research aims to support the successful deployment of solar thermal in a variety of industrial applications and reduce the risk for future investment. QUT is a leader in high temperature material selection for the unique conditions this technology presents.
Our research investigates high-temperature and low-temperate solar thermal applications, and the techno-economics of solar thermal integration to process plants:
High-temperature solar thermal
- Conversion to electricity
- Asset management
- Materials compatibility
- Design and materials selection
- Process heat
Low-temperature solar thermal
- Food drying
- Process heat
Our researchers collaborate closely with other CCETP research programs, industry and the broader research community.
