Perovskite: The 'wonder material' that could transform solar
2 days ago
- #renewable-technology
- #solar-energy
- #perovskite
- Perovskite solar cells are seen as the next generation of solar power, combining silicon with perovskite materials to increase efficiency.
- Perovskite materials are synthetically made with crystal structures similar to the mineral discovered in 1839, using readily available materials like bromine, chlorine, lead, and tin.
- Perovskite panels promise to boost energy generation cheaply and could outperform silicon panels in applications like satellites and electric cars.
- Critics highlight concerns about perovskite's susceptibility to moisture and heat, leading to faster degradation, and the presence of lead, a toxic substance.
- Tandem perovskite solar cells have a theoretical maximum efficiency of over 47%, significantly higher than silicon-only cells, which max out at around 33%.
- Oxford PV and other startups are working to commercialize tandem perovskite panels, with recent records showing efficiencies of up to 26.9% for residential modules.
- Perovskite panels are being tested for niche uses like electric vehicles and space applications, where their higher efficiency and lower cost could be transformative.
- Real-world performance and durability data are critical for perovskite's commercial success, but long-term field tests are still lacking due to the technology's youth.
- Companies in China and the US are rapidly advancing perovskite technology, with some achieving lab efficiencies over 30%.
- Despite challenges, the solar industry is increasingly shifting towards perovskite tandem cells, which could revolutionize energy production.