Magazine
Researchers at the Hong Kong Institute of Science and Technology have developed a groundbreaking molecular treatment that significantly enhances the efficiency and longevity of perovskite solar cells. This advancement, led by Assistant Professor Lin Hen-Yuang, could have a transformative impact on solar energy production.
The new treatment, which involves a process known as passivation, boosts the power conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells by over 20% and extends their operational stability to over 1,500 hours. Passivation works by reducing defects in the material, improving both performance and durability. This is crucial for perovskite solar cells, which have garnered attention for their cost-effectiveness and higher energy efficiency compared to traditional silicon-based cells, though they have faced challenges related to stability.
The researchers’ success in this endeavor is significant. The solar cells achieved open-circuit voltages surpassing 90% of the thermodynamic limit, placing their performance among the best reported in the field. Moreover, the passivation process is scalable, allowing for industrial-level production at an affordable cost.
As solar energy continues to grow in importance—accounting for nearly 80% of new energy production in the U.S. in 2024—this development could revolutionize the market. If these enhanced perovskite solar cells can be effectively produced on a large scale, they could drive a surge in the availability of more affordable, efficient, and durable solar panels worldwide, supporting the expanding demand for renewable energy sources.
