Researchers at the University of Surrey’s Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) have achieved a milestone in solar power technology, developing lead-tin perovskite solar cells with energy conversion efficiency (PCE) by more than 23%.

This advancement not only sets a benchmark for this material, but also extends the operational life of solar cells by 66%, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable renewable energy solutions.

Professor Ravi Silva, Director of the University of Surrey’s Institute of Advanced Technology, said: “This research brings us closer to panels that not only generate more energy over their lifetime, but also last longer. Greater efficiency and fewer replacements mean more green energy with less waste.

Meeting the challenge of stability and efficiency

While silicon-based solar panels dominate rooftops today, perovskite-based solar technology has become a revolutionary alternative. Fully perovskite solar panels promise even higher efficiencies, but challenges to their long-term stability and performance have hampered their widespread adoption.

This latest research addresses these obstacles, focusing on critical lead-tin perovskite cells used in advanced designs.

“The understanding we developed from this work allowed us to identify a strategy that improves efficiency and extends the operational life of these devices when exposed to ambient conditions,” said Hashini Perera , Ph.D. student and lead author of the study.

“This advancement is a major step toward high-efficiency, sustainable solar panels that will give more people access to clean, affordable energy while reducing dependence on fossil fuels and global carbon emissions. »

A vision for sustainable energy

To improve the performance of lead-tin perovskite cells, the team studied the role of the hole transport layer, a crucial element in the operation of solar cells. They discovered that the chemical reactions causing degradation could be mitigated by introducing an iodine reducing agent.

This approach not only prevented these reactions, but also increased the efficiency and lifespan of the cells, making them more viable for commercial use.

“By significantly improving the efficiency of our perovskite-based solar cells, we are moving closer to producing cheaper and more durable solar panels,” explained Dr. Imalka Jayawardena, co-author of the study. “We are already working to refine these materials, processes and device architecture to address the remaining challenges.”

As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, the University of Surrey is building a 12.5 MW solar farm, which will serve as a testbed for these innovative perovskite modules. “We are confident that our work will accelerate the commercial adoption of perovskite-based solar panels,” Silva said. added.

Global implications and future prospects

This research aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 7 (affordable and clean energy), Goal 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) and Goal 13 (climate action).

By proposing solutions to improve the efficiency and sustainability of solar energy, the study contributes to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and increase access to renewable energy.

Looking ahead, the team plans to further refine its materials, processes, and device architecture to address remaining challenges. These advances could pave the way for a new era of solar technology, where perovskite the panels outperform traditional silicon-based systems in terms of efficiency, cost-effectiveness and environmental impact.

With these innovative solutions, Surrey ATI and its collaborators are not only shaping the future of solar energy: they are leading the way to a cleaner, greener planet.

The study was published in Energy and environmental sciences.