Solar energy is one of the most important forms of renewable energy, and has been constantly evolving over the past decades. Here are some of the latest news in the world of solar energy:

• Greater efficiency in energy conversion: A team of researchers from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia has developed a new solar cell that has achieved a record energy conversion efficiency of 29.4%. This new technology promises to improve the efficiency of existing solar panels and reduce production costs.

• Solar energy in Antarctica: The Chilean Sustainable Energy Agency has installed the first solar plant in Antarctica to provide energy to the scientific base. The 10kW solar plant will reduce dependence on fossil fuels and allow scientific research to be carried out on the continent.

• Floating solar panels: In Japan, a floating solar power plant is being built on a reservoir, using floating solar panels. This plant will have a generating capacity of 2.6 MW and will supply energy to around 920 homes.

• Solar energy in fashion: The Spanish fashion brand Ecoalf has created a collection of clothing made from sustainable materials and built-in solar panels. Solar panels can be charged during the day and used to charge mobile devices at night.

• Energy storage technology: Lithium-ion batteries have been the primary means of energy storage for residential solar systems, but new energy storage technologies, such as flow batteries, are emerging as potential alternatives. These new technologies can offer higher storage capacities, longer cycle lives, and improved safety.

In short, solar energy is advancing rapidly and there are many exciting innovations on the horizon. From more efficient solar cells to floating solar panels and clothing with built-in solar panels, solar energy is proving to be a clean and versatile energy source that can improve sustainability and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.