BiFi PV Workshop 2023

In just two decades, solar energy capacity using photovoltaic (PV) technology has skyrocketed from a mere 0.5 GW to a whopping 1.1 TW in 2022. Notably, about 70% of this growth occurred in the last five years. Nowadays, developers are increasingly turning to bifacial crystalline silicon PV modules, which currently make up over 30% of the market. Projections indicate that this figure could exceed 70% by 2033.

Arid and semi-arid locales, particularly hot deserts, offer optimal conditions for bifacial PV technology. These regions benefit from consistent high solar radiation and natural albedo, leading to increased energy yield—especially when equipped with single-axis trackers. This is confirmed by recent record-low costs for solar electricity generated by bifacial tracking systems in places like Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Arizona, and Chile, among others. However, the technology also faces unique challenges, including degradation and two-sided soiling.

We’re thrilled to invite you to the 9th bifiPV Workshop 2023, scheduled for December 3rd to 6th. The event, hosted by the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI) under Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), will take place at Education City in Doha, Qatar.

This four-day gathering will convene international experts in bifacial technology to delve into its current state, future prospects, and latest breakthroughs. The attendees—ranging from researchers to manufacturers and project developers—will tackle the multifaceted challenges and opportunities of bifacial PV tech and its operational aspects. The agenda will feature both oral and visual presentations on a variety of topics such as solar cell innovation, system applications, and power plant strategies for cost reduction.

Additionally, the workshop will include a technical tour of QEERI’s Outdoor Test Facility (OTF), a 35,000 m2 site boasting state-of-the-art “plug-and-play” test benches for PV modules, as well as the largest HSAT facility in the MENA region dedicated to R&D and testing.