German Scientists Develop Record Breaking Flexible Tandem Solar Cells Using Perovskite and CIGSe Technology to Achieve Efficiency Milestones
German scientists have achieved a new level of performance in clean energy technology by developing the most efficient tandem solar cell ever created. This device features two distinct light absorbing layers working within a single structure to trap more of the sun rays than a conventional silicon panel made of only one material. As a result, the researchers hope to take a significant step towards a highly practical renewable energy source.
The core of this technology involves two ultra thin layers working in unison. The top layer is made of perovskite which is ideal for capturing high energy blue light from the solar spectrum. While the top layer is dedicated to capturing blue light, the layer directly below it is composed of a copper indium gallium selenide alloy industry known as CIGSe that can be calibrated for capturing red and infrared light. To optimize the yield, the internal reflective coatings of the cell were re engineered so less energy was lost as electrons crossed the active layers.
Laboratories have further confirmed the physical benefits of this concept using electrical tests. The main prototype surface measures 1.081 cm2 and successfully attained a tested efficiency of 25.5 percent surpassing the previous record of 24.6 percent set a year earlier. Internal tests of improved versions of this system reached efficiencies of 27.5 percent. Additionally, the team produced a larger mini module surface of 2.25 cm2 that consistently maintained a conversion efficiency of 19.7 percent.
Whereas conventional silicon panels are rigid and heavy, these particular thin film tandem cells are physically flexible. This physical characteristic means the cells can be used in curved architecture where standard solar technology is impractical. These could be used commercially in areas such as structural window glass, curved façades of buildings, and the roof panels of electric vehicles. The German research team has set a next development goal of 30 percent efficiency before beginning a full scale industrial manufacturing partnership.
