Articles tagged with "solar-cells"
China's perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell hits 33.35% efficiency
A Chinese company, Longi, has achieved a world record power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 33.35% for a flexible perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell, certified by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). This marks the first internationally recognized record for a flexible crystalline silicon-perovskite tandem solar cell, highlighting its potential for commercial use in lightweight and flexible photovoltaic applications such as space and vehicle-integrated solar power. The tandem cell is built on a 60-micron-thick ultra-thin silicon bottom cell and demonstrates high efficiency on both small (1 cm²) and wafer-sized (260 cm²) areas, with a power-per-weight ratio of up to 1.77 W/g. The breakthrough relies on a dual-buffer-layer strategy that enhances interfacial adhesion and mitigates damage during manufacturing, while preserving efficient charge extraction. This involves a bilayer of tin oxide (SnOx) deposited via atomic layer deposition and chemical vapor deposition to
energysolar-cellsperovskitephotovoltaic-technologytandem-solar-cellsflexible-solar-panelspower-conversion-efficiencyScientists uncover what's truly limiting silicon solar cell efficiency
Korean researchers from the Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) and Chungbuk National University have identified two distinct microscopic defects that limit the efficiency of silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells, currently the most efficient silicon-based solar technology. SHJ cells combine crystalline silicon with thin amorphous silicon layers and are key components in next-generation tandem solar architectures aimed at surpassing conventional silicon cell performance. The team improved upon the traditional Deep Level Transient Spectroscopy (DLTS) method by developing a new analysis approach that tracks the full transient response of defects, revealing that what was previously thought to be a single defect signature is actually a superposition of two independent defect types with different energy levels and behaviors. The study found one defect to be a slow, deep-level component and the other a fast, shallow-level component, each with distinct spatial locations and atomic bonding configurations within the device. Importantly, these defects can switch bonding configurations depending on manufacturing conditions and device operation, with hydrogen playing a
energysolar-cellssilicon-heterojunctionphotovoltaicsdefect-analysisrenewable-energysemiconductor-materialsBreakthrough heat-resistant solar cells retain 96% performance even after 1,200 hours
Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed a heat-resistant molecular contact layer that significantly enhances the durability of perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells. These tandem cells, which combine perovskite and silicon materials to capture a broader spectrum of sunlight, have achieved efficiencies above 34%, including a certified 33.6% from an independent testing center. However, their commercial deployment has been hindered by instability under heat, with rapid degradation occurring in the ultra-thin self-assembled monolayer (SAM) contact layer that facilitates electrical charge flow between the perovskite and silicon layers. The NUS team discovered that conventional SAMs lose their structural integrity at elevated temperatures, causing molecular "fibers" to curl and create gaps that block electricity flow. To overcome this, they engineered a modified SAM that forms a cross-linked network, creating a tightly bound layer resistant to heat-induced damage. This innovation allowed the solar cells to retain over 96% of
energysolar-cellsperovskitesilicon-tandemheat-resistant-materialsself-assembled-monolayermolecular-interfaceSolar Cells To Cure Coal Fever With Quantum Dots
The article discusses recent advancements in solar cell technology, particularly focusing on quantum dot solar cells, which are poised to enhance the solar industry despite political efforts favoring coal. Quantum dots are ultra-small semiconductor particles whose optical properties can be precisely tuned, allowing for improved solar energy conversion. Although early quantum dot solar cells had low efficiencies (around 2.9% in 2010), significant progress has been made, with efficiencies reaching 13.4% by early 2024 due to better understanding of quantum dot connectivity, device structures, and defect reduction. While conventional solar cells already surpass 13.4% efficiency, quantum dots offer the potential to lower manufacturing costs and improve efficiency in multi-material solar cells, making solar power even more economical and scalable. A notable development is the partnership between quantum dot startup UbiQD and First Solar to enhance bifacial solar panels, which capture sunlight on both sides. First Solar estimates that applying a thin quantum dot film on the back side of these panels could boost
energysolar-cellsquantum-dotsrenewable-energymaterials-sciencenanotechnologyclean-energyControl over atomic structure of perovskites could transform solar cells
Researchers have developed a novel vapor-based method to grow ultra-thin halide perovskite films with atomic-level precision, potentially transforming the fabrication of solar cells, LEDs, lasers, and quantum devices. Unlike traditional solution processing, which is difficult to control and messy, this vapor deposition technique—commonly used for standard semiconductors—enables precise alignment of atoms in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional perovskite layers. This epitaxial growth approach allows for fine-tuning of the material’s properties by controlling the thickness and composition of each layer down to fractions of an atom. The team demonstrated the ability to engineer the junctions between perovskite layers to either keep electrons and holes together or separate them, significantly impacting light emission efficiency. They achieved tunability of the energy difference between layers by more than half an electron volt and extended charge carrier lifetimes to over 10 microseconds, far exceeding typical values. This unprecedented control opens avenues for scalable, high-performance optoelect
perovskitessolar-cellsmaterials-sciencesemiconductorsenergy-efficiencythin-filmsvapor-depositionChina's solar cell hits 27.2% efficiency, endures 1,000 hours at 185°F
Researchers at the Institute of Semiconductors, Chinese Academy of Sciences, have developed a perovskite solar cell prototype achieving a certified photoconversion efficiency of 27.2%, measured on a 0.108 cm² device. This advancement addresses a critical stability issue caused by uneven chloride ion distribution during film fabrication, which previously led to surface defects and reduced performance. By introducing potassium binoxalate, an alkali metal oxalate, during thermal processing, the team was able to suppress chloride ion migration. The potassium ions released bind with chloride ions, ensuring uniform chlorine distribution throughout the perovskite layer, resulting in improved efficiency and durability. The new solar cells demonstrated notable operational stability, retaining 86.3% of their initial efficiency after 1,529 hours under continuous 1 Sun illumination at maximum power point tracking. In accelerated aging tests at 185°F (85°C), the cells maintained 82.8% efficiency after 1,000 hours, highlighting enhanced
energysolar-cellsperovskitephotoconversion-efficiencymaterials-sciencethermal-stabilitypotassium-binoxalateFossil Fuels Can't Win Against New Perovskite-Silicon Solar Cells
The article highlights the significant advancements in perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells, which are emerging as a lower-cost, higher-efficiency alternative to traditional silicon solar cells. Perovskite materials, once considered fragile and difficult to produce, have been successfully integrated with silicon to create tandem cells that surpass the Shockley-Queisser limit of 33.7% efficiency for single-junction cells. Notably, Chinese firm LONGi has reported record-breaking efficiencies approaching the theoretical tandem limit of 43%, signaling strong commercial potential. Researchers at Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) emphasize that while efficiencies near 35% have been achieved in the lab, challenges remain in scaling up production, improving long-term stability, and ensuring manufacturability aligns with industrial standards. PolyU’s recent study in Nature Photonics outlines strategic recommendations to bridge the gap between current efficiencies (~34%) and the theoretical maximum (~40%), focusing on enhancing operational stability and scalability. Professor Li Gang stresses the importance of minimizing
energysolar-cellsperovskitesiliconrenewable-energyphotovoltaicenergy-conversionGas-proof polymer film could protect solar cells from corrosion
MIT researchers have developed a novel polymer film called 2DPA-1 that is extraordinarily impermeable to gases, including nitrogen, helium, argon, oxygen, methane, and sulfur hexafluoride. This two-dimensional polyaramid self-assembles into tightly packed molecular sheets via hydrogen bonding, leaving no gaps for gas molecules to penetrate. The film is only nanometers thick, lightweight, and can be produced in bulk, overcoming scalability challenges faced by graphene, which has similar impermeability but is difficult to manufacture in large areas. Tests showed 2DPA-1 performs at least 10,000 times better than other polymers in blocking gas passage. The polymer’s exceptional barrier properties have significant practical implications, particularly for protecting sensitive materials like perovskite solar cells, whose lifespan was extended from days to weeks with a thin 60-nanometer coating of 2DPA-1. Beyond solar technology, the film could protect infrastructure exposed to the elements—such as bridges,
materialspolymer-filmsolar-cellscorrosion-protectionimpermeable-coatingnanomaterials2D-polyaramidEngineers close in on 40% efficiency with next-gen solar cells
Researchers at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), led by Professors Li Gang and Yang Guang, have made significant strides in improving perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells (TSCs), aiming to boost their energy conversion efficiency from about 34% to nearly 40%. These next-generation solar cells have the potential to outperform traditional silicon cells, offering a promising path toward more efficient, stable, and scalable photovoltaic technology. The team’s work addresses key challenges such as maintaining device reliability when scaling from lab-scale to commercial-sized modules, mitigating degradation caused by environmental factors like moisture and ultraviolet light, and ensuring manufacturing processes meet industrial standards. In addition to technical hurdles, the researchers highlight environmental concerns related to the use of rare elements and lead in perovskite materials. They advocate for the development of sustainable alternatives and effective lead recycling systems to ensure the technology’s long-term viability. Emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration among academia, industry, and research institutions, the team stresses that integrating material science
energysolar-cellsperovskitephotovoltaic-technologyclean-energyenergy-efficiencymaterials-sciencePerovskite solar cells achieve 27% efficiency with new coating
An international research team led by Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin (HZB) has significantly improved the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells by introducing a novel fluorinated interfacial coating between the perovskite layer and the top contact, known as the buckyball (C60) layer. This thin, Teflon-like molecular film acts as a chemical shield, reducing defects and energy losses while enhancing the uniformity and mechanical durability of the C60 layer. As a result, the perovskite cells achieved a power conversion efficiency of nearly 27 percent and maintained this performance after 1,200 hours of continuous operation, equivalent to a full year of natural sunlight exposure. In contrast, cells without the coating lost about 20 percent efficiency after only 300 hours. Beyond efficiency gains, the fluorinated coating improved the cells’ resilience under harsh conditions, withstanding 1,800 hours of thermal aging at 185°F and 200 temperature cycles between -40°F
energysolar-cellsperovskiterenewable-energymaterials-sciencephotovoltaicenergy-efficiencyThe Rise Of Perovskite Solar Cells, The Fall Of Fossil Fuels
The article highlights the rapid advancement and growing market presence of perovskite solar cells as a transformative technology in the solar energy sector. Traditional silicon solar cells, while effective, are relatively costly and complex to manufacture. In contrast, perovskite solar cells, based on lab-grown crystals mimicking the mineral perovskite, offer a promising alternative due to their lower production costs and increasing efficiency. Since the first perovskite solar cell was reported in 2009 with a modest 3.8% efficiency, researchers have rapidly improved this figure to routinely achieve double-digit efficiencies, with some tandem designs potentially exceeding 30%. A key challenge for perovskite solar cells has been their fragility and limited durability, which researchers are addressing through innovative engineering solutions such as tandem cells that combine perovskite layers with silicon. This hybrid approach leverages the strengths of both materials, resulting in lighter, more flexible, and more efficient solar panels at a lower cost than silicon alone.
energysolar-cellsperovskitephotovoltaic-technologyrenewable-energysolar-powermaterials-scienceRoll-to-roll printed solar cell hits 9% efficiency, 88% production yield
Researchers at Chemnitz University of Technology in Germany have achieved a significant advancement in printed solar cell technology by developing roll-to-roll printed organic solar cells with a record efficiency of 9% and a production yield exceeding 88%. This marks a substantial improvement from their initial 2011 prototype, which had only 1.7% efficiency and limited durability. The new solar cells use a polymer blend (PM6:Y12) embedded within multiple functional layers printed sequentially using conductive inks, enabling rapid, low-cost, and energy-efficient manufacturing on flexible substrates like paper or plastic. This breakthrough is part of the DFG-funded “POPULAR” research group focused on printed and stable organic photovoltaics. The team is currently conducting accelerated aging tests to understand performance degradation and optimize future designs. The roll-to-roll printing process offers a scalable alternative to traditional silicon solar panels, which require energy-intensive production. Potential applications include large-area, flexible solar films for agricultural shading systems that generate power while protecting crops, highlighting the technology’s
solar-cellsroll-to-roll-printingorganic-photovoltaicsrenewable-energyprinted-electronicsenergy-efficiencyflexible-solar-panelsSemi-transparent solar cells achieve record efficiency in new study
Researchers at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have developed a novel parameter called FoMLUE (Figure of Merit for Light Utilization Efficiency) to evaluate and optimize photoactive materials for semi-transparent organic photovoltaics (ST-OPVs). This dimensionless metric integrates average visual transmittance, bandgap, and current density to identify the most effective material combinations for solar windows. Using ternary materials with the highest FoMLUE scores, the team achieved a record light utilization efficiency of 6.05% in semi-transparent solar cells, surpassing previous benchmarks. These advanced ST-OPVs also demonstrated improved thermal insulation and operational stability, making them promising candidates for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), renewable energy vehicles, and agricultural greenhouses. ST-OPVs offer a unique balance of aesthetics and energy generation by allowing transparency or tinting, enabling their integration into everyday surfaces like windows and facades without compromising design or visibility. The PolyU team’s research highlights the potential for
energysolar-cellsphotovoltaicssemi-transparent-solar-cellsrenewable-energybuilding-integrated-photovoltaicsenergy-harvesting-materialsNew Triple-Junction Tandem Perovskite Solar Cell Sets World Record - CleanTechnica
A research team at the University of Sydney has achieved a new milestone in perovskite solar cell technology by developing a triple-junction tandem solar cell that combines two layers of perovskite with silicon. This 16 square centimeter device demonstrated a world-record power conversion efficiency for its size, while a smaller 1 square centimeter "champion" cell reached a record 27.06% efficiency. The triple-junction architecture addresses both efficiency and durability challenges by leveraging the low cost and high efficiency of perovskite alongside the robustness of silicon. Significantly, the smaller cell also set a new standard for thermal stability, passing the International Electrotechnical Commission’s Thermal Cycling test involving 200 cycles between -40°C and 85°C, and retaining 95% of its efficiency after over 400 hours of continuous light exposure. Although these cells are still smaller than typical commercial solar panels, the results demonstrate the potential for scaling up stable, efficient perovskite-based solar devices.
energysolar-cellsperovskitephotovoltaicstandem-solar-cellrenewable-energymaterials-scienceInorganic perovskite solar cells achieve highest efficiency to date
Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) in Lithuania have achieved a record efficiency of over 21 percent in inorganic perovskite solar cells by developing a durable protective layer that addresses a major challenge of rapid degradation. This protective layer, formed through a novel passivation technique using perfluorinated 2D ammonium cations, enables strong adhesion to the pure inorganic perovskite surface by creating hydrogen bonds with lead iodide fragments. This breakthrough overcomes previous difficulties in bonding 2D layers to inorganic perovskites, resulting in stable heterostructures that maintain integrity even at elevated temperatures. The improved passivation not only enhances efficiency but also significantly boosts durability. The team demonstrated that mini-modules with an active area over 300 times larger than typical lab cells achieved nearly 20 percent efficiency and sustained stable operation for over 950 hours at 85°C under continuous illumination. These stability results meet stringent commercial standards comparable to silicon solar cells, marking a critical step
energysolar-cellsperovskitematerials-sciencerenewable-energyphotovoltaicspassivation-technologyGlobal record set for large triple-junction perovskite solar cell
Australian researchers led by Professor Anita Ho-Baillie at the University of Sydney have developed the largest and most efficient triple-junction perovskite–perovskite–silicon tandem solar cell to date. The team achieved a certified steady-state power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 23.3% on a large 172-square-foot (16-square-meter) device, marking a global record for large-area cells of this type. On a smaller 0.15-square-inch (1 cm²) scale, they reached an even higher efficiency of 27.06%. These results represent significant advancements in both performance and thermal stability, demonstrating the potential for durable, high-efficiency perovskite solar technology. The triple-junction solar cell stacks three semiconductor layers with different bandgaps to capture a broader spectrum of sunlight than traditional silicon cells. The researchers enhanced stability by replacing commonly used but unstable methylammonium with rubidium to strengthen the perovskite crystal lattice and
energysolar-cellsperovskitetandem-solar-cellpower-conversion-efficiencymaterials-sciencerenewable-energyTiny gold mirror could make solar panels lighter, cheaper, and stronger
Researchers at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), in collaboration with Uppsala University, have developed an innovative ultrathin solar cell featuring a nanostructured gold mirror that significantly enhances light trapping and efficiency. By applying a very thin, patterned gold layer coated with aluminum oxide on the back of the cell, the design reflects light back into the cell for a second absorption, boosting efficiency by about 1.5%. The aluminum oxide layer also serves to reduce electrical losses through interface passivation, preventing energy-wasting electron recombination. This approach addresses two major challenges in ultrathin solar cells: improving photon capture and minimizing energy loss, thereby making these cells more practical for real-world applications. The team employed a cost-effective and scalable one-step nanoimprint lithography technique to create the nanostructured mirror, enabling industrial-scale production. Tested on ultrathin ACIGS thin-film solar cells, the new design showed optimal performance when manufactured at 450 °C,
energysolar-cellsnanotechnologythin-film-solargold-nano-mirrorlight-trappingflexible-solar-panelsUNSW Researchers Claim Solar Cell Breakthrough - CleanTechnica
Researchers at UNSW Sydney have announced a significant breakthrough in solar cell technology by harnessing singlet fission to improve silicon solar cell efficiency. Unlike conventional solar cells that convert one photon into a single electron/hole pair, singlet fission enables one high-energy photon to generate two excited electron/hole pairs, effectively doubling the electrical output from the blue portion of the solar spectrum. The team demonstrated that using photochemically stable dipyrrolonaphthyridinedione (DPND) derivatives as the singlet fission material, combined with thin layers of tin oxide and PEDOT:PSS for interface passivation, can create commercially viable singlet fission photovoltaic devices. This approach avoids the instability issues of previously used materials like tetracene. The breakthrough offers a practical pathway to enhance silicon solar cells without the complexity and cost of tandem designs, which require multiple junctions and extensive redesign. Current silicon modules typically achieve efficiencies of 20-25%, but singlet fission could push
energysolar-cellsphotovoltaicssinglet-fissionsilicon-solar-cellsrenewable-energymaterials-scienceUS engineers build transistor-like switch for quantum excitons
University of Michigan engineers have developed the first transistor-like switch that can control the flow of excitons—quantum quasiparticles that carry energy without charge—at room temperature. Excitons form when light excites electrons in semiconductors, creating electron-hole pairs that move together as neutral energy packets. Unlike electrons, excitons do not generate heat through energy loss, making them promising candidates for more efficient computing technologies. The team overcame a major challenge by designing a nanostructured ridge that guides excitons along a controlled path and using electrodes as gates to switch exciton flow on and off, achieving an on-off switching ratio above 19 decibels. This breakthrough opens the door to excitonic circuits that could significantly reduce energy consumption and heat generation in computing systems, addressing current limitations faced by electronics in AI and other demanding applications. The researchers also demonstrated an optoexcitonic switch using light to propel excitons rapidly along the ridge, suggesting potential for faster and cooler data transfer in devices
quantum-excitonsexcitonicsnano-switchenergy-efficient-computingsemiconductor-technologyoptoelectronicssolar-cellsNew bendable solar cells hit 21.6% efficiency under heat, humidity
A European consortium called PEARL has made significant advances in developing flexible, low-cost perovskite solar cells with carbon electrodes, achieving over 21% power conversion efficiency (PCE) on bendable substrates and aiming for a 25% efficiency target. Utilizing roll-to-roll (R2R) manufacturing techniques, the project has demonstrated scalable production methods suitable for flexible, thin-film solar modules. These developments position the technology for applications including building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. A key breakthrough is the improved durability of these solar cells, which remain stable for over 2,000 hours under harsh conditions of 85°C and 85% humidity, thanks to a new protective encapsulation. The use of carbon electrodes not only enhances stability but also supports environmental goals by reducing production costs below 0.3 EUR/Wp and minimizing carbon emissions to less than 0.01 kg CO2eq/kWh. Various partners in the
energysolar-cellsperovskiteflexible-electronicsroll-to-roll-manufacturingphotovoltaicscarbon-electrodesSmartlet microrobots coordinate underwater using light signals
Researchers at Chemnitz University of Technology have developed “smartlet” microrobots—tiny, millimeter-scale cube-shaped devices capable of autonomous movement and communication underwater. Constructed from flexible, origami-inspired materials, each smartlet integrates solar cells, onboard processors, micro-LEDs, and photodiodes, enabling them to harvest light for power and use optical signals for communication without external controls. Propelled by bubble-generating engines that control buoyancy, these microrobots can coordinate their actions through light-based signaling, allowing synchronized group behaviors and decentralized control. This innovation marks a significant advance in creating distributed robotic systems that mimic collective intelligence found in nature. By combining energy harvesting and communication in a compact, wireless loop, the smartlets eliminate the need for bulky external equipment like magnets or cameras. The researchers envision diverse applications, including medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and soft robotics, where these biocompatible, untethered robots could perform complex sensing and adaptive tasks in fluidic
robotmicrorobotsunderwater-roboticsoptical-communicationsolar-cellsautonomous-systemsdistributed-intelligenceWorld's most powerful X-ray laser spots atomic shifts in solar cells
Scientists at the European XFEL research facility have, for the first time, directly observed atomic-scale deformations inside solar cell materials using the world’s most powerful X-ray laser. Led by Johan Bielecki, PhD, the team captured how electron-hole pairs—created when light excites electrons in a solar cell—cause subtle distortions in the atomic lattice of the material. These tiny deformations, previously undetectable, were visualized using femtosecond-scale X-ray pulses, revealing ultrafast interactions between electron-hole pairs and the crystal lattice. The study focused on quantum dots made of cesium, lead, and bromine (CsPbBr3), where these distortions form a state known as an exciton-polaron. The findings are significant because even minimal lattice deformations critically influence the optical and electronic properties of materials used in solar cells, displays, sensors, and potentially quantum computing components. Zhou Shen, PhD, the study’s lead author, emphasized that understanding these
energysolar-cellsmaterials-scienceX-ray-laserquantum-dotsoptoelectronicsatomic-lattice-deformationUK engineers create solar shield that survive harsh space radiation
UK engineers at the University of Surrey have developed a novel protective coating, termed a “cosmic veil,” designed to shield perovskite solar cells (PSCs) from the harsh radiation environment of space. This coating, made from propane-1,3-diammonium iodide (PDAI₂), stabilizes the fragile organic molecules within PSCs that are typically vulnerable to damage from proton irradiation and other space radiation sources such as galactic cosmic rays and solar energetic particles. By preventing these organic components from breaking down into gases that weaken the cells, the coating helps maintain the cells’ efficiency and structural integrity over long durations. Testing demonstrated that PSCs treated with this coating sustained significantly less efficiency loss and internal damage when exposed to radiation levels simulating over 20 years in low-Earth orbit. This breakthrough addresses a major limitation of PSCs in space applications, where durability and radiation tolerance are critical. While multi-junction III-V solar cells currently dominate space power systems due to their performance
energysolar-cellsperovskitespace-technologyradiation-shieldingphotovoltaicmaterials-scienceFlexible solar cells beat 10,000 bending cycles with 96% efficiency
Researchers at the Korea Institute of Materials Science (KIMS) have developed a flexible perovskite solar cell that combines high efficiency with exceptional mechanical durability and environmental stability. By employing a "defect passivation strategy," they sandwiched the light-absorbing perovskite layer between two protective two-dimensional (2D) perovskite layers. This innovation shields the core material from moisture, enabling fabrication in ambient air conditions with up to 50% relative humidity—overcoming a major hurdle of perovskite’s traditional sensitivity to moisture and eliminating the need for costly controlled environments. The resulting solar cells demonstrate remarkable performance retention, maintaining over 85% of their initial efficiency after 2,800 hours of operation and 96% efficiency after 10,000 bending cycles, highlighting their mechanical resilience. Additionally, in more rigorous shear-sliding tests, the cells preserved 87% efficiency. This durability, combined with the ability to produce the cells in open air, significantly reduces
energysolar-cellsperovskiteflexible-electronicsmaterials-sciencerenewable-energydurabilityJapan’s new solar tech brings film-like panels to fragile rooftops
Japan is developing next-generation, film-type chalcopyrite solar cells designed to be lightweight enough for installation on rooftops with low load-bearing capacity, such as fragile slate roofs. This initiative, a collaboration between green tech startup PXP Inc. and Tokyo Gas Co., aims to launch commercial services by fiscal 2026. The chalcopyrite solar cells weigh less than 1 kg/m², comparable to perovskite solar cells, and offer similar power generation efficiency and durability. The project focuses on optimizing panel structure and construction methods to ensure performance, safety, and durability on roofs previously unsuitable for traditional heavy solar panels. The potential impact of this technology is significant, with an estimated installable capacity of approximately 169 gigawatts on such roofs by 2050—more than double Japan’s current solar capacity. This expansion could help address the slowing pace of solar adoption caused by a shortage of suitable installation sites and structural limitations of existing rooftops. The development also includes research into tandem solar cells
energysolar-powersolar-cellschalcopyriteperovskiterenewable-energycarbon-neutralChina’s dual-faced solar cells hit 23.4% efficiency record, cut power loss dramatically
Researchers in China have developed an innovative approach to significantly improve bifacial perovskite solar cells (Bi-PSCs), achieving a record power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 23.4% while dramatically reducing photon loss—a key factor limiting these cells’ performance. By identifying photon loss as the primary cause of performance degradation, the team introduced a high-quality thick-film deposition method that regulates perovskite crystallization dynamics. This method employs a multifunctional additive, 1-ethyl-3-guanidinium thiourea hydrochloride (EGTHCl), to control nucleation and crystallization in highly concentrated precursor solutions, resulting in dense, uniform, and defect-free perovskite films. The enhanced Bi-PSCs not only reached a record efficiency but also demonstrated remarkable stability, retaining over 80% of their initial performance after more than 2,000 hours of continuous light exposure. This advancement addresses the inherent design challenge of bifacial cells, which use semi-transparent rear
energysolar-cellsperovskitephotovoltaicphoton-lossbifacial-solar-cellspower-efficiencySolar cells on ultra-thin glass to transform energy technology for space
Researchers from Loughborough and Swansea universities are developing lightweight cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells deposited on ultra-thin glass to revolutionize energy systems for satellites and space manufacturing. This CdTe-on-glass technology offers a lighter, cheaper, and highly radiation-resistant alternative to the conventional silicon and multi-junction solar cells currently used in space missions. While multi-junction cells dominate due to their high efficiency, their complex manufacturing and high costs limit scalability. The new technology targets 20% efficiency in space and has already achieved 23.1% efficiency on Earth, with initial space testing conducted aboard the AlSat-Nano CubeSat. The collaboration aligns with the UK’s strategic vision to capture a significant share of the growing global space technology market, valued at £17.5 billion in the UK alone. The European Space Agency forecasts a surge in space solar demand from 1 MWp/year to 10 GWp/year by 2035, driven by satellite constellations and
energysolar-cellsspace-technologycadmium-telluridephotovoltaicssemiconductor-materialssatellite-power-systemsFlexible solar cell with record 26.4% efficiency could advance drones
Scientists at the Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) have developed a groundbreaking ultra-thin, flexible solar cell achieving a world-record power conversion efficiency of 26.4%. This tandem solar cell combines a perovskite top layer, which efficiently captures visible light, with a newly engineered organic bottom layer containing a custom molecule called P2EH-1V that excels at absorbing near-infrared (NIR) light. This innovative design addresses previous limitations in NIR absorption, significantly boosting overall efficiency and outperforming comparable perovskite-organic and perovskite-CIGS cells. The flexible, lightweight nature of these cells makes them ideal for integration into unconventional surfaces, such as wearable electronics, smart textiles, and drones, where weight and form factor are critical. The technology also holds promise for roll-to-roll manufacturing, enabling scalable, low-cost production. Moving forward, the research team aims to improve the operational stability of these cells in real-world conditions and advance toward pilot
energysolar-cellsperovskiteflexible-electronicstandem-solar-cellrenewable-energydrone-technologyBreakthrough solar cells reach 38% efficiency in low indoor light
Scientists at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan have developed a new type of perovskite solar cell (PeSC) that achieves a remarkable 38.7% power conversion efficiency (PCE) under low indoor lighting conditions of around 2,000 lux, typical of office environments. While traditional silicon solar cells perform better under direct sunlight (up to 26% PCE), these perovskite cells excel in dimmer settings, producing energy even on cloudy days or indoors. The PeSCs are thin, lightweight, flexible, and semi-transparent, offering advantages over rigid and heavy silicon panels, which are limited to flat, durable surfaces. The researchers enhanced the solar cells by adjusting the bandgap through molecular composition changes in the perovskite layers, enabling efficient absorption of indoor light—a capability not achievable with silicon cells. This breakthrough suggests potential applications for powering small devices in indoor or low-light environments, reducing reliance on traditional power sources and expanding solar technology use beyond outdoor
energysolar-cellsperovskiteindoor-lightingphotovoltaicrenewable-energyenergy-efficiencyEye-opening device: Self-powered AI synapse mimics human vision, achieves 82% accuracy
energyAIoptoelectronicssolar-cellsvisual-recognitionlow-power-systemsautonomous-vehiclesSolar cells hit record 19.96% efficiency with 6x cheaper polymer
energysolar-cellsorganic-materialsefficiencysustainable-energypolymer-technologycost-reductionNREL-Led Research Effort Adds Salt, Boosts Performance of Perovskites
energysolar-cellsperovskiterenewable-energyphotovoltaic-technologyefficiencydurability