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University Of Cyprus And DegradationLab Launch Solar Research Project

The DegradationLab Strategy Unit in Infrastructure and the University of Cyprus Photovoltaic Technology Laboratory have launched a research project focused on validating a performance monitoring system for next-generation photovoltaic devices.

Named MPPT-Solution, and formally titled “Proof of Concept of Open-Source, Low Cost, And Adaptable MPP Tracking System For Perovskite PV Devices”, the project aims to improve Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) for emerging photovoltaic technologies, including perovskite-based solar cells.

Addressing Hysteresis In Photovoltaic Performance

One of the project’s objectives is to address measurement hysteresis, a challenge associated with several emerging photovoltaic technologies. Researchers are developing an electronic monitoring system designed to track maximum power output more accurately and support performance assessment under varying operating conditions.

Rigorous Testing And Strategic Validation

Launched on March 1, 2026, the project is scheduled to run for nine months. Testing will be conducted under controlled laboratory conditions at the University of Cyprus before moving to field trials involving large-scale perovskite photovoltaic panels. During the outdoor testing phase, international industry partners will collaborate with researchers to evaluate system performance under real-world operating conditions.

Pathway To Commercial Viability

Alongside its research objectives, MPPT-Solution is exploring the development of an open-source, low-cost and adaptable MPPT system for future commercial applications. Project participants expect the technology to contribute to improving the efficiency and monitoring capabilities of next-generation photovoltaic installations.

Strategic Funding And Innovation

Funding is provided by the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation through its Proof of Concept programme, which forms part of the broader Smart Development initiative. Support from the programme will enable the development and validation of renewable energy technologies while strengthening research activity in Cyprus.

Reddit Tests TikTok-Style Video And Audio For Popular Posts

Reddit is testing new ways to consume its most popular posts, including video and audio formats inspired by how Reddit stories are already shared on platforms such as TikTok and Meta’s Reels.

The experiment began Monday across selected communities. Reddit says the early test will help determine which formats users prefer and whether they can eventually be expanded more widely.

From Reddit Threads To Narrated Videos

The idea was first discussed during Reddit’s second-quarter earnings call in July. CEO Steve Huffman noted that popular Reddit stories are already being turned into narrated videos on other platforms, often using text-to-speech or creators reading posts aloud alongside unrelated footage.

Reddit now wants to bring that experience directly to its own platform. Users participating in the test can choose whether to “read” or “play” eligible posts.

Audio could allow people to listen to Reddit while exercising, walking or doing other activities, while video could make written conversations more engaging.

Original Posts Will Remain

The initial test is limited to selected English-language posts and is available through Reddit’s iOS and Android apps. The original posts and their comments will remain available, meaning the new formats will complement rather than replace Reddit’s traditional experience.

The company is also evaluating whether these formats can be introduced without losing the character of Reddit’s text-based communities.

Reddit Has Tested Video Before

The latest experiment builds on Reddit’s earlier attempts to expand beyond text. The company introduced native video hosting in 2017 and later tested a TikTok-style video feed.

More recently, Reddit introduced video in comments, which the company says now accounts for more than 10% of video posts on the platform.

The new test is another step in Reddit’s effort to make its content more accessible in different formats while competing for attention in an increasingly video-focused social media market.

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