Role of Technology in Supply Chain

CISA, NSA and 19 international partners released a joint guide today on the value that increased software component and supply chain transparency can offer to the global community by implementing software bill of materials (SBOM): "A Shared Vision of Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) for Cybersecurity". - This guide informs producers of software, organizations procuring software, and operators of software about the advantages of integrating SBOM generation, analysis, and sharing into security processes and practice. - As modern software increasingly relies on third-party and open-source components, SBOMs offer a foundational step toward understanding and mitigating supply chain vulnerabilities. - This guide emphasizes the importance of SBOMs in identifying risks within software components and encourages their integration into security practices. - It encourages alignment of SBOM technical implementations across countries and sectors to help ensure interoperability, reduce complexity, and enable scalable adoption. #sbom #softwarebillofmaterials #softwaresupplychain #security #cybersupplychainsecurity #supplychainriskmanagement

Amazon is developing wearable smart glasses for its Delivery Associates (DAs) that bring advanced computer-vision and AI directly into the delivery workflow. These glasses display turn-by-turn walking navigation and delivery instructions without the driver needing to look at a phone. Also, they’re tuned for delivery associates’ safety, and the design process involved hundreds of drivers providing feedback to improve comfort, display clarity, and usability. In the AI-education space, this signals a more profound shift -wearable, embedded, contextual AI tools are becoming part of daily workflows. Now, people don’t have to juggle phones, packages, and directions for delivery partners. The mind-blowing facts are: 👉 This is built with feedback from hundreds of drivers for comfort and clarity. 👉 It uses Amazon’s geospatial tech for exact doorstep navigation. 👉 Its future versions may detect pets, lighting, or wrong deliveries in real time. The world we are living in is just the beginning of augmented logistics, where human judgment meets real-time AI guidance. Let me know what you think about this new AI-powered product.

We talk about fighting corruption every election cycle. What if we could design a system where corruption simply cannot exist? In my latest BusinessWorld article, I explore how blockchain, already tested by DBM in publishing SAROs on-chain, can make government spending transparent and tamper-proof. The technology works. The precedent is there. What’s missing is courage. As someone leading in AI, Blockchain, and Cybersecurity, I believe this isn’t just about tech but it's about restoring trust in our institutions. If DBM can do it, why not DPWH for infrastructure? Why not DepEd for school projects? Why not DoH for procurement? The Philippines doesn’t need more promises. It needs systems that make integrity non-negotiable. 👉 Read the full article here https://lnkd.in/gi9bY-bd #BlockchainForGood #DigitalGovernance #ABCDLeadership #TheBlockBoxSeries

Endless revisions. Inefficient manual processes. Mistakes, mistakes, mistakes. This was the solar industry fifteen years ago, when I first started in the sector. Back then, completing a solar project was a herculean task. Project timelines were often extended well beyond initial projections. And it was nearly impossible to avoid errors in calculations. Over the years, technology has significantly streamlined these processes. But challenges remain. While it takes less time to create initial designs, changing or optimizing them is still difficult and time-consuming. If adjustments happen close to construction, workers and equipment on-site might have to wait for the updated design – increasing costs and delaying completion. While manual processes are mostly gone – thank goodness! – developers still might introduce errors and inefficiencies when they transfer data between platforms used for different project stages – like shading analysis, layout configuration, system sizing, or yield estimation. These data issues can result in financial losses. From my career in solar, I know firsthand how infuriating these challenges can be. That’s why, a few years ago, I started developing automated software that could make the process far easier and more accurate. I’m so proud to see how far PVcase has come since then. Our tools help developers pick solar sites, configure layouts, and calculate project outputs – without introducing errors during data transfer. And we’re looking for even more ways to streamline the solar development process from start to finish. To learn more about how software automation has changed the solar industry, check out our blog in the first comment ⬇️.

You can't secure what you can't see: Gain visibility into your software supply chain with SBOMs today ! One of the major threats to the software supply chain is the trust organizations place in OSS and TPSS without having visibility on software components’ authenticity and the source of origin. In fact, more than 95% of commercial applications available today use some form of open-source software, according to the 2021 Open-Source Security and Risk Analysis (OSSRA) report. This shift has saved companies time, money, and resources, but it comes with an increased risk to supply chain security. One potential attack surface for adversaries seeking to penetrate an organization’s security posture is through malicious code injected into either open-source or third-party closed-source code libraries used in software development, depending on where the attack occurs within the software supply chain. What makes software supply chain tricky is that monitoring third-party open-source dependencies is tedious if not done systematically. The ability to leverage the work of thousands of open-source developers using open-source libraries also means that the software supply chain is affected by the increased probability of human error, unpatched vulnerabilities, and attacks on dependencies. Achieving visibility into the components used in a software product is crucial for mitigating the risks associated with supply chain security. SBOM serves as an effective solution for obtaining this visibility. SBOMs are a key foundation element to provide visibility and transparency into the organization software supply chain. However, the SBOM concept is not new, but it is gaining traction due to several factors such as EO 14028 requirements, regulatory mandates across the globe. The utility of SBOMs in ensuring software supply chain security goes far beyond the federal government. Several industries, including healthcare, finance, and automotive, are increasingly recognizing the importance of SBOMs in ensuring supply chain security. While the benefits of SBOMs in software supply chain risk management are apparent, implementing them is not always easy. Here are some steps to get started: 1. Select a SBOM tool: Choose a tool that fits your organization’s need based on the role in software supply chain security lifecycle. 2. Automate your pipelines: Integrate the SBOM tool into your continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD) pipeline. 3. Manage vulnerabilities: Assess and remediate identified vulnerabilities on a timely basis. Implementing an SBOM should be the first step in a broader approach to supply chain security for software development and maintenance. Threat actors are ever evolving, and software supply chain attacks remain a threat. By establishing a secure software development practice and continuously monitoring the supply chain, organizations can proactively detect and mitigate risk associated with software products and associated supply chain.

✋ Solar isn’t just about panels anymore — the real competition is happening across the entire supply chain. 👉 The report, “Solar PV Supply Chain Cost Tool: Methodology, Results and Analysis” by International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) highlights this. ✋ Key takeaways: ☀️ A tool to understand solar manufacturing economics: IRENA developed a data-driven cost tool that analyses the entire crystalline silicon PV supply chain — from polysilicon → wafers → cells → module assembly — helping policymakers and investors assess manufacturing competitiveness. 🌍 Global supply chain comparison: The tool enables cost analysis across key markets including China, the United States, Germany, India, Viet Nam and Australia, providing insights into regional manufacturing advantages. ⚙️ Key drivers of solar manufacturing costs: Major cost components include electricity consumption, materials (especially silicon and silver), labour, equipment depreciation, and facility costs across each stage of the PV value chain. 🔬 Technology matters: Advanced technologies like TOPCon cells offer higher efficiency (around 23% vs ~21.6% for monocrystalline cells) but require more complex manufacturing processes and higher upfront costs. 📉 Costs expected to keep declining to 2030: Improvements in manufacturing efficiency, economies of scale, reduced material consumption, and higher cell efficiencies are projected to further reduce PV module production costs. 🌱 ESG and supply chain diversification are rising priorities: The tool also evaluates ESG certification costs, tariffs, logistics and sourcing decisions, highlighting the growing importance of responsible and resilient solar supply chains. 💬 Do you think future solar competitiveness will depend more on technology innovation or local supply chain development? #SolarEnergy #Renewables #EnergyTransition #SolarManufacturing #CleanEnergy #SupplyChains ✋ Follow my substack, 'The Monthly Global Energy & Climate Transition Roundup', covering top developments in clean energy and climate. 👉 Subscribe for free at https://lnkd.in/d-6Efimt

#AIinSolar - 𝗔 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗬𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝘅𝗶𝗺𝘂𝗺 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 As I reflect on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in the solar industry, I am consistently amazed by how it is revolutionizing our approach to renewable energy, particularly in the inverter segment. The convergence of AI and solar technology goes beyond an incremental improvement – it is reshaping the very foundation of how we deliver clean energy solutions. This is something we have witnessed firsthand with our product solutions as to how AI is revolutionizing inverter technology. The ability to analyze vast amounts of operational data in real-time has transformed our maintenance approach from reactive to predictive. Our teams can now anticipate potential issues before they impact performance, significantly reducing system downtime and optimizing energy output. This caters to much more than just the maintenance – it is about reimagining what is possible in solar energy efficiency. The ripple effects of AI integration extend far beyond individual components. Across the solar value chain, from initial system design to ongoing operation, AI is driving unprecedented levels of optimization. We are seeing smarter panel placement strategies, dynamic responses to weather conditions, and intelligent grid integration that ensures optimal energy distribution. These advancements are making solar energy more reliable and cost-effective than ever before. What excites me most is how AI is meeting and exceeding the core expectations of our industry professionals. The goal has always been clear: 𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝗿𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲. The results we are seeing – whether in predictive maintenance, energy optimization, or grid management – consistently demonstrate AI's ability to deliver on these promises. Looking ahead, I am confident that AI will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in solar energy. As these technologies evolve, we will see even more sophisticated, personalized solutions that make clean energy more accessible and efficient. Each AI integration marks another step beyond conventional limits, charting a course through territories once thought unreachable. As we push the boundaries of innovation and embrace new possibilities, I am incredibly excited about the vital role we will play in shaping a cleaner, more sustainable energy future! 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗷𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗮𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗰𝗮𝗻’𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿. #SolarEnergy #ArtificialIntelligence #CleanTech #Sustainability #Innovation #RenewableEnergy #EnergyTransition #ongridinverters #rooftopsolar #pmsuryaghar

🌞 What’s New in PV Design? How 0BB #Technology is Transforming the Solar Industry Working as a PV #inspector and technical professional, I’ve witnessed how photovoltaics (PV) are evolving at an incredible pace. Every year brings new breakthroughs—but one of the most impactful innovations we’re seeing today is the rise of Zero Busbar (0BB) Technology. This is not just another small design tweak—it’s a paradigm shift in solar manufacturing that’s #unlocking higher efficiency, lower costs, and more sustainable production. 🔹 What Makes 0BB Different? No busbars on the front → eliminates shading and maximizes sunlight capture. Fine wire / SmartWire #metallization → reduces resistive losses, improving efficiency. Less silver paste required → lower cost of manufacturing + reduced dependency on scarce resources. Better mechanical stress #distribution → higher durability and improved module reliability. Aesthetic advantage → sleek, uniform surface, ideal for premium residential & BIPV applications. 🔹 Challenges to Overcome Of course, #innovation comes with challenges: Manufacturing lines need re-tooling and new equipment investment. Long-term reliability of adhesives and interconnections still requires extensive testing. Industry adoption takes time, as #standards and certifications evolve around new designs. But the opportunities far outweigh the challenges—and that’s what makes this technology exciting. 🔹 Why This Matters for the Solar Future 📈 Higher Efficiency → More energy from the same area. 💰 Cost Reduction → Silver savings = competitive pricing. 🌱 #Sustainability → Lower material usage and reduced carbon footprint. 🌍 Scalability → Perfect fit for utility-scale, BIPV, floating solar, and agrivoltaics. 0BB is not just about technical upgrades—it’s about creating a smoother path toward global clean energy adoption. ✨ My Take as a PV Inspector For me, this innovation is inspiring because it combines technology + quality + sustainability in one package. In my inspections, I’ve seen how even small improvements in module design translate into long-term reliability and higher ROI for end users. 0BB is paving the way for the next #generation of PV modules, and it’s an exciting time to be part of this transition. 💡 I’m always open to #discussions, #collaborations, and learning from experts about how we can integrate these advancements into real-world solar projects. Together, we can accelerate the shift toward a greener energy future. #Solar #PV #ZeroBusbar #0BB #SmartWire #SolarTechnology #Innovation #Sustainability #CleanEnergy #Renewables #GreenEnergy #FutureOfEnergy #PVInspector #PVManufacturing #SolarModules #Efficiency #SolarIndustry #Decarbonization #EnergyTransition #BIPV #Agrivoltaics #FloatingSolar #Collaboration

Scientists in Germany have pushed solar technology to a new level by developing a cell that achieves an unprecedented 47 percent efficiency under standard sunlight conditions. This marks a dramatic leap compared to the roughly 20–22 percent efficiency of today’s best commercial silicon panels. Such a breakthrough has the potential to significantly reduce the cost of solar electricity worldwide, making renewable energy more accessible and accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels. The development represents not just an incremental improvement, but a structural shift in how efficiently sunlight can be converted into usable power. The innovation is based on a perovskite-silicon tandem design that layers two different materials to capture a broader portion of the solar spectrum. The upper perovskite layer absorbs high-energy wavelengths, while the lower silicon layer captures lower-energy light that passes through. This dual-layer approach allows the cell to utilize more incoming solar energy than either material could alone. Researchers estimate that the theoretical efficiency limit for this structure could reach over 50 percent, indicating that further advancements are still possible as materials and manufacturing techniques continue to improve. Beyond efficiency, production advantages make this technology especially promising. Perovskite materials can be processed at lower temperatures and with less energy than traditional silicon, potentially reducing manufacturing costs significantly. As companies prepare for commercial rollout in the coming years, the focus will shift toward durability, scalability, and long-term performance. If these challenges are successfully addressed, this innovation could redefine the economics of solar power and play a central role in global clean energy expansion.

⚡ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗜𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗦𝗵𝗶𝗳𝘁 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐏-𝐓𝐲𝐩𝐞 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐂 → 𝐍-𝐓𝐲𝐩𝐞 𝐓𝐎𝐏𝐂𝐨𝐧 For nearly a decade, P-type PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) dominated the solar industry. It was affordable, reliable, and easy to scale for mass production. But today, the industry is rapidly transitioning toward N-type TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) technology. So what changed? --- 🔍 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙇𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙋-𝙏𝙮𝙥𝙚 𝙋𝙀𝙍𝘾 PERC technology pushed module efficiencies beyond 20–22%, but it is now approaching its practical performance limits. In addition, P-type cells suffer from several degradation mechanisms: • LID (Light-Induced Degradation) • LeTID (Light and Elevated Temperature-Induced Degradation) • Higher carrier recombination losses These issues reduce long-term energy yield and reliability. --- 🚀 𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝙉-𝙏𝙮𝙥𝙚 𝙏𝙊𝙋𝘾𝙤𝙣 𝙄𝙨 𝙂𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙈𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙪𝙢 TOPCon technology improves cell performance by adding an ultra-thin tunnel oxide layer and passivated contacts, which reduce recombination losses and improve carrier selectivity. Key advantages include: ✔ Higher efficiency potential ✔ Lower degradation and minimal LID ✔ Better temperature performance ✔ Higher bifaciality and energy yield Commercial TOPCon modules already reach ~21.5–23% efficiency, outperforming typical PERC modules. --- 🏭 𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝙈𝙖𝙣𝙪𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘼𝙧𝙚 𝘼𝙙𝙤𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙊𝙋𝘾𝙤𝙣 Another major reason for the rapid transition is manufacturing compatibility. Many manufacturers can upgrade existing PERC production lines to TOPCon, reducing capital investment compared with completely new technologies. This makes TOPCon one of the most practical next-generation technologies for large-scale solar manufacturing. --- ⚡ 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐠 𝐏𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 The shift from PERC → TOPCon is not just a small upgrade. It represents a major evolution in photovoltaic technology, enabling higher efficiency, better reliability, and lower long-term cost of electricity. And while HJT, Back-Contact, and Tandem cells are also advancing, TOPCon is currently emerging as the industry’s mainstream next step. --- 📢 Join our WhatsApp_Channel Daily Solar PV Manufacturing insights straight from the factory floor.👇 https://lnkd.in/dutfjfwN #SolarEnergy #SolarTechnology #TOPCon #SolarCells #PVManufacturing #RenewableEnergy #CleanEnergy #SolarInnovation #Photovoltaics #EnergyTransition #rayofpvteam #rayofPvknowledge