In a groundbreaking development, scientists at the City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) have successfully created highly efficient, printable, and stable perovskite solar cells. These cells have the potential to not only accelerate the journey towards achieving carbon neutrality but also promote sustainable development on a global scale.
Unlike traditional solar cells, these new perovskite solar cells can be mass-produced at a speed comparable to newspaper printing, with a remarkable daily output of up to 1,000 solar panels. This major advancement opens up the possibility of creating “urban solar farms” in densely populated cities with numerous high-rise buildings. Additionally, the flexible and semi-transparent characteristics of these cells allow them to be integrated into light-absorbing glass windows, further expanding their application in urban environments.
Led by Professor Alex Jen Kwan-yue, the research team at CityUHK has introduced a novel approach to enhance the long-term stability of perovskite-organic tandem solar cells. Despite being a challenge for scientists for over a decade, the team successfully addressed the issue by implementing creative material science solutions. Through the integration of organic redox mediators with appropriate chemical potentials, the team achieved an impressive retention rate of over 90% of the initial Power Conversion Efficiency (PCE) after 500 hours of continuous operation.
The research published in Nature Energy showcased a record-breaking efficiency of 25.22% (certified 24.27%) in the perovskite solar cells developed by the CityUHK team. Not only did the cells demonstrate exceptional efficiency, but they also exhibited good operational stability in humid air conditions with a relative humidity of 70-80%. This level of performance highlights the potential of these innovative cells to revolutionize the renewable energy sector.
Dr. Wu Shengfan, a key member of the research team, emphasized the significance of employing redox and chemical synthesis methods to ensure the stability of perovskite solar cells. The team’s rigorous approach to tackling complex challenges has positioned them as leaders in the field of sustainable energy research. The research findings are set to be translated into practical applications through the start-up company HKTech Solar Limited, under the management of Dr. Francis Lin, a postdoctoral student of Professor Jen.
Perovskite solar cells hold immense potential for various applications, from large-scale buildings and farms to the integration into components of the Internet of Things. With the aim of further expanding their reach, the CityUHK team plans to establish a pilot production line in Hong Kong with an annual output of 25 megawatts within the next year and a half. This strategic move will not only drive innovation in the renewable energy sector but also attract investors to explore diverse applications of this cutting-edge technology.
The remarkable achievements of the City University of Hong Kong research team in developing highly efficient, printable, and stable perovskite solar cells mark a significant milestone in the journey towards sustainable development. The innovative approach taken by the team not only addresses long-standing challenges in solar energy production but also paves the way for transformative solutions in the renewable energy sector. As the world continues to prioritize sustainability and carbon neutrality, these advancements hold the promise of reshaping the future of energy production on a global scale.
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