Solar producers near breakthrough | Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

U.S. solar panel producers say they’re nearing a technological shift that could boost energy output by 25% while using less land and roof space. The development centers on “tandem solar,” which stacks second and third layers of materials—described as a layer-cake approach—to capture more of the sun’s radiance. Manufacturers including Tandem PV, First Solar and Hanwha Qcells say they are preparing to sell tandem panels commercially after successful testing and certifications. Mike Carr, executive director of the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition, called it “the next frontier,” while warning China is also working on tandem but claims its technology lags. The article notes hurdles: buyers may resist higher costs and fears of faster degradation, and U.S. federal permitting remains difficult. China supplies about 80% of global panel market components.