Solar cell efficiency record achieved

Kyocera has achieved a new record in solar cell efficiency, 18.5% energy conversion efficiency. "The new world record in energy conversion efficiency that Kyocera announces today demonstrates our commitment to continuous improvement," said Steve Hill, President of Kyocera Solar, Inc. "We are pleased that our team has achieved this milestone and we look forward to putting this technological achievement into mass production."

While such a small improvement in efficiency doesn't seem like a big deal, it actually has a huge impact on the amount of energy that can be produced from solar cells. Such gains make solar cells for more cost effective. In fact, with incentives, such as those offered in California, a solar roof can pay for itself in around seven years.

More solar power.

(Business Wire via Yahoo)