Prof. YAN Jinyue Jerry, a member of RICRI and Chair Professor of Energy and Buildings, has led a PolyU research team in developing an innovative hydrogel coating for solar panels, offering a promising new way to improve solar energy performance in hot weather conditions. Solar panels typically lose efficiency when their temperature rises under prolonged sunlight exposure. This is a common challenge, particularly in regions with strong solar radiation and high ambient temperatures. To address this issue, Prof. YAN’s team developed a hydrogel-based coating that helps cool solar panels passively, enabling them to operate more efficiently and generate more electricity. This research represents an important step forward in renewable energy technology. By using an advanced material to regulate panel temperature without relying on additional energy-consuming cooling systems, the innovation has the potential to enhance the practicality and sustainability of solar power. It also demonstrates how cutting-edge materials research can be translated into solutions for real-world energy challenges. This achievement is not only a testament to Prof. YAN’s research leadership, but also an encouraging example of how innovative technologies can contribute to the broader adoption of clean energy. With further development, the hydrogel coating could support more efficient and reliable solar power systems in a wide range of climates and applications.
