Swiss lab makes tandem solar cell with perovskite layer

Researchers at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) have created a tandem solar cell with 20.5% efficiency using a thin perovskite layer.

The scientists say there is significant potential for better conversion of solar spectrum into electricity using their procedure.

The research team has developed a 14.2% efficient semi-transparent solar cell, with 72% average transparency, made from methylammonium lead iodide deposited in the form of tiny perovskite crystals. This cell absorbs UV, blue and yellow visible light, while allowing red light and infrared radiation to pass through to the second cell below.

The Empa methods of making such tandem solar cells based on polycrystalline thin films are suitable for large area low cost processing. The processing of perovskite takes place at just 50 degrees Celsius so the process is “potentially applicable” for low cost roll-to-roll production in future, says Empa.

Ayodhya Tiwari, head of the Thin Film and Photovoltaics laboratory, believes that tandem solar cells could bring solar efficiency beyond 30%, but a lot of research work is needed before that will be possible.

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