By Joseph Varghese/Staff Reporter

Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (Gord) is showcasing its latest invention of a new-generation solar cell, which has improved efficiency, at the International Sustainable Built Environment Conference being held in Doha.
Founding chairman of Gord Dr Yousef Mohamed al-Horr revealed that the new-generation solar cell was developed in collaboration with Qatari Diar.  “The efficacy of present solar photovoltaic cells get weakened and reduced by 50% over a few years. Gord has developed the new-generation cell that has greater advantages than the present ones.  This cell will have 40% more efficiency than the present ones.”
Dr al-Horr said the product has been completed and is in the testing phase. “We will test it over a period of time. We will have to see the performance of the cell in different climatic conditions. We will test it all through the year and assess the variations in performance in different climatic conditions.”
The official also said that after gaining approval from the entities concerned, Gord would look into the commercial viability of the product. “We will run it for a full cycle and then look for the commercial plans. We have also started the patent process. It will take a few years to complete the entire process before it is commercially launched.”
The founding chairman observed that the ongoing conference is a venue for presenting innovations from all around the world. He also mentioned a new innovation of  ceramic or porcelain tiles that can prevent the growth of bacteria inside the buildings. “The whole idea will
be presented  during the conference and others might challenge them. If  proven,
it will be another major breakthrough.”
Dr al-Horr urged government bodies to adapt to the Qatar Construction Specifications (QCS 2014) in all upcoming projects. “Many government bodies in Saudi Arabia are keen to adapt to these standards and Gord has already trained  many professionals in Saudi Arabia in this regard,” he added.