Energy: silicon and perovskite solar cell breaks efficiency record

Silicon is the main element used in solar panels around the world, but experts point out that it is approaching the maximum efficiency limit. Now, Researchers from the research institution Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin (HZB) in Germany have developed a solar cell that has set a new efficiency record in the universe of the universe. solar energy.

In research, the team found that: Perovskite, a relatively rare mineral, may offer better efficiency than silicon. Again, By combining the two materials, they developed solar cells with an efficiency of more than 32.5%. — in this way, they are more efficient than when used separately.

The idea is that each material has a different ability to gather light from the solar spectrum: silicon works best with red and infrared waves, while perovskite is more effective at collecting blue light.

perovskite and silicon

Because the new cell is fabricated with several layers and has a new interface between the active area and the electrodes, it is possible to filter different light spectra to minimize electrical energy loss and increase overall efficiency.

“The solar cell efficiency of HZB arrays, at 32.5%, is in ranges previously achieved only by expensive III/V semiconductors,” said HZB Professor and Chief Scientific Officer Bernd Rech.

The new technology is considered the best solar cell today, according to a table published by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in the United States. By then the last record had reached 31.25% efficiency, but only on more expensive devices. In any case, it is important to emphasize that the new efficiency record was recorded independently.