Scientists at the solar research and development centre, Oxford PV, are entering a new era of solar innovation, researching the potential of perovskite to increase the efficiency of solar panels when combined with traditional silicon cells.[1].
Figure 1: High Angle View of A Man. [2]
What is Perovskite-on-Silicon?
Perovskite is a crystalline material known for its light-absorbing properties and ability to efficiently convert sunlight into electricity. When layered on top of traditional silicon cells, it creates a tandem structure capable of capturing a wider spectrum of sunlight.
Traditional silicon solar cells, have an efficiency ceiling of around 22–26%. This is due to the Shockley-Queisser limit, which dictates the maximum efficiency of a single-junction solar cell. The Perovskite-on-silicon tandem cells work by combining the absorption abilities of both materials. Silicon efficiently absorbs red and infrared light, while perovskite captures blue and green light, making it possible to achieve efficiencies near 43%. [3].
Benefits
The new technology offers the following advantages:
- Increased Efficiency – Tandem solar panels generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight. [4]
- Cost -effectiveness – Perovskite is a relatively inexpensive material and therefore the overall cost of high-performance solar panels could be reduced.
- Innovative Design – Perovskite cells are lightweight and flexible and can therefore be integrated onto curved surfaces or portable solar devices.[5]
- Sustainability – Increased efficiency means fewer panels are needed to generate the same amount of electricity, reducing the resources required.
Challenges
Despite its promise, perovskite-on-silicon technology faces challenges that require consideration before widespread implementation:
- Durability – Perovskite materials are vulnerable to environmental stressors such as moisture, heat, and UV exposure, which can degrade their performance.
- Scalability – While laboratory prototypes have demonstrated increased efficiencies, scaling up production to commercial levels while maintaining performance and quality is a challenge.
- Toxicity Concerns – Many perovskite formulations use lead as a key component, raising concerns about environmental contamination and human health. Lead-free alternatives are being researched that maintain the higher efficiency. [6]
- Integration into Existing Systems – Integrating tandem cells into existing solar systems requires adaptation and testing to ensure compatibility, reliability, and safety.
Conclusion
Perovskite-on-silicon solar panels present an exciting opportunity for the solar industry. With the potential to significantly enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and expand solar energy’s applications, this technology could play a pivotal role in addressing growing energy demands. As the research continues, this innovative technology could redefine the solar industry.
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References
[2] Pixabay (July 2010) on Pexels.com. Last accessed on 17th November 2024. Available at: https://www.pexels.com/photo/high-angle-view-of-a-man-256381/
[3] Shockley, W., & Queisser, H. J. (1961). “Detailed Balance Limit of Efficiency of p-n Junction Solar Cells.” Journal of Applied Physics.
[4] Oxford PV: “Perovskite and the Future of Solar Power.”
[5] https://www.eeref.co/blogs/Unlocking-Solar’s-Potential:-Advancements-in-Tandem-Solar-Cell-Technology
[6] Journal of Materials Chemistry A: “Exploring Lead-Free Alternatives in Perovskite Solar Cells.”
