The solar energy sector could be facing a huge transformation with the development of perovskite solar cells. This aims to surpass the efficiency limitations of traditional silicon panels. In a recent study outlined in a Nature Energy publication, researchers, including Michael McGehee from the University of Colorado Boulder, have introduced a novel method for manufacturing perovskite cells, crucial for their commercial viability.

While silicon panels currently dominate the market with an efficiency of 22%, perovskite cells offer a promising alternative, potentially surpassing silicon's efficiency at a lower production cost. By layering perovskite cells atop silicon ones, researchers have achieved tandem cells that could boost efficiency by over 50%.

Challenges in scaling

However, scaling up perovskite production poses challenges, especially in preventing the material from reacting with oxygen during the coating process. McGehee's team addressed this by incorporating dimethylammonium formate (DMAFo) into the perovskite solution, enabling coating in ambient air and enhancing stability.

Despite promising results, longer-term testing is necessary to assess the durability of perovskite cells compared to silicon panels, which typically maintain 80% efficiency over 25 years. McGehee's team expresses that they are actively pursuing the development of tandem cells with efficiencies exceeding 30% and comparable lifespans to silicon panels through the TEAMUP initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.

What does this mean for different industries?

These advancements hold significant potential for widespread adoption beyond traditional solar applications. Tandem cells could extend the range of electric vehicles by 15 to 25 miles per day, making them viable for daily commutes. Their versatility could also see deployment in drones and sailboats, diversifying renewable energy usage.

After a decade of research, perovskite cells now match silicon cells in efficiency, signaling a monumental leap forward. McGehee believes that if tandem cells prove successful, they could revolutionize the solar market, becoming the next generation of solar technology.

The research into perovskite solar cells represents a paradigm shift in renewable energy, offering higher efficiency and lower costs compared to traditional silicon panels. With ongoing advancements and initiatives like TEAMUP, perovskite technology is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of solar energy.

What are perovskite solar cells anyway?

Perovskite solar cells are a type of photovoltaic device that utilizes halide perovskite materials to convert sunlight into electricity. While perovskite solar cells have shown rapid advancements in efficiency over the past decade, there are still some challenges to overcome before they can achieve widespread commercialization.

The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) is actively supporting research and development initiatives focused on advancing perovskite solar technologies. SETO has identified four primary challenges that must be addressed for perovskite technologies to become commercially successful:

1. Stability and Durability: Perovskite solar cells have demonstrated competitive efficiency levels, but their stability remains a concern. Researchers are investigating methods to enhance the durability of perovskite materials and improve the operational lifetimes of these solar cells.
2. Power Conversion Efficiency at Scale: While perovskite solar cells have achieved impressive efficiencies in laboratory settings, maintaining high performance at scale is essential for widespread deployment. Efforts are underway to develop scalable manufacturing processes and improve the efficiency of large-area modules.
3. Manufacturability: Scaling up perovskite manufacturing is crucial for the commercial production of these solar cells. Researchers are exploring scalable fabrication approaches, such as sheet-to-sheet and roll-to-roll processing, to increase manufacturing efficiency and reduce costs.
4. Technology Validation and Bankability: Ensuring the reliability and bankability of perovskite solar technologies is essential for attracting investment and commercial adoption. SETO is funding initiatives to develop standardized testing protocols and performance targets to validate the long-term durability and performance of perovskite solar cells.