A Fresh Wave Of Perovskite Solar Cell Activity Is Under Way

The article highlights a renewed surge of activity in the development and commercialization of perovskite solar cells, driven by the need to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and establish high-volume manufacturing. Perovskite solar cells, first identified for their solar conversion potential in 2009, have undergone 17 years of research to enhance performance and address material challenges. A key advantage is their compatibility with low-cost, roll-to-roll manufacturing processes that allow flexible solar cells to be printed onto thin films, enabling applications on lightweight roofs, façades, vehicles, and historic buildings where traditional rigid panels are unsuitable. A significant recent development is the launch of Pervion Technologies by the Dutch research organization TNO, which aims to build a European supply chain for flexible perovskite solar cells, reducing dependence on Asian imports and strengthening the local economy. In the U.S., tandem solar cells combining perovskite layers with silicon are gaining attention for surpassing silicon's theoretical efficiency limits, potentially lowering overall solar