Why a New Approach to Perovskite Solar Cells Could Provide Greener Energy

What Are Perovskite Solar Cells?

Researchers around the world see perovskites as one of the most promising materials for the development of cheap, efficient, and environmentally friendly solar cells. The material is able to absorb light and that way create an electric charge.

In other words, perovskite solar cells are a technology which transforms the energy from the sun into electricity. This new approach to solar energy has consequently developed as an emerging technology in the photovoltaic system, also known as the solar PV system.

While researching new ways to increase the efficiency of utilising solar energy, the technology is constantly being developed into new, more and more advanced products. Perovskite solar cells are the first technology during the last few years that promise a cheaper and more efficient alternative to the existing technologies for converting light to electric power.

What Are the Advantages of Perovskite Solar Cells?

Compared to other solar technology, perovskite solar cells react to different wavelengths of light. This is due to the structure of the cells which enables the electrons to travel through thicker layers of solar cells. As a result that they can convert a proportionately higher amount of sunlight into electricity. More specifically, researchers have recently been able to identify an efficiency of more than 20 per cent in power conversion.

Furthermore, perovskite solar cells offer low potential material and reduced processing costs. They can even be fabricated in different colours, thereby providing consumers with the opportunity to adapt the product to their own desires.

Specific characteristics of the new technology, such as flexibility, semi-transparency, and lightweight, make electronics designers and researchers strongly believe that perovskite solar cells will open up many more applications for solar cells.

How Could Perovskite Solar Cells Provide Greener Energy?

It cannot be denied that the perovskite solar cells are facing major challenges. However, much research and development are put into making perovskite cells the technology of the future.

Researchers have recently discovered that by adjusting the properties of the transport layers used by perovskite solar cells, they can increase the proportion of the sunlight falling on the surface of the cell, that can ultimately be turned into electricity. In order to increase the efficiency of the perovskite solar cells, it is, therefore, very important to understand how and which transport layers influence cell performance and can thereby obtain the most energy.

Scientists and companies are working towards increasing efficiency and stability, prolonging lifetime and replacing toxic materials. For example, researchers have taken a step toward the design of solar cells which contain lead-free perovskites. Lead has been highlighted as one of the main issues that perovskites face, which is problematic for commercial use of the products too. The development of efficient, yet lead-free perovskite solar cells would, therefore, make a tremendous difference for not only the quality of the cells but also for the commercialisation of the products.

Even though perovskite solar panels are still under development, it is certain that they have huge potential. If this new technology fulfils its promise, it could fundamentally change the capabilities of solar energy.