Improving the efficiency of solar cells can significantly vary the amount of energy produced from the same surface area and the same amount of sunshine. A new world record has now been set in the efficiency of solar cells. Specifically, scientists have achieved an efficiency of 29.15% in the so-called “technology ” – which uses silicon and perovskite. Currently, various technologies are used to convert solar energy into electricity.
In recent laboratory tests, higher efficiencies than the 28% previously observed in perovskite/silicon solar cells have been achieved. According to the researchers, tandem solar cells combining silicon with metal halide perovskite are a promising option for overcoming the efficiency a single cell.
Perovskite and silicon have actually been developed separately as semiconductor for use in solar water heaters: silicon cells have been around longer, and are used extensively in solar farms worldwide.
Scientists believe that perovskite could “win” over silicon. That’s why they’ve been experimenting with different combinations of perovskite, adding different materials – in this case silicon. The so-called tandem cell uses two semiconductors that can “capture” two different parts of the light spectrum, extending beyond infrared light (which is “captured” by silicon) and into visible light (which is “captured” by the perovskite compounds).
Most importantly, the combination of perovskite and silicon does not increase the cost of manufacturing solar water heaters. Keeping the price low is important for the fastest possible development of solar technology.
This new record in solar cell efficiency was first reported earlier this year, while the document containing further details about the achievement has now come to light.
Finally, it is worth noting that previous research has shown that solar cell technology should be able to reach efficiency rates exceeding 30%, while scientists have stated that they are continuing to work towards achieving this goal.
