Perovskite
Novel semiconductor material class for solar cells with high efficiency potential and simple manufacturing.
Also known as: Perovskite Solar Cell
What Is Perovskite?
Perovskite refers to a class of crystal structures (ABX3) that can be used as semiconductor material in solar cells. Perovskite solar cells are considered the most promising future technology in photovoltaics, as they enable high efficiencies with simple and cost-effective manufacturing.
Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Cell efficiency (lab) | up to 26% (single cell) |
| Tandem cell with silicon (lab) | up to 33.9% |
| Manufacturing temperature | approx. 100—150 °C (vs. 1,400 °C for silicon) |
| Material costs | Very low |
| Market readiness | In development (pilot production from ~2025) |
Advantages
- Extremely low-cost manufacturing via printing or vapour deposition
- Tuneable band gap — ideal for tandem cells
- Good low-light performance
- Flexible and semi-transparent modules possible
Challenges
The biggest hurdle is long-term stability: perovskite materials are sensitive to moisture, UV light, and temperature. Additionally, many perovskites contain lead, raising environmental concerns. Research is actively working on lead-free alternatives and improved encapsulation.
Practical Tip
Perovskite modules are not yet commercially available for residential rooftop systems. The technology will have its greatest impact as a tandem partner for silicon cells, where efficiencies above 30% become possible.
Related Terms
Tandem Solar Cell
Multi-layer solar cell combining two semiconductor materials to utilise different light spectra and achieve higher efficiencies.
Solar Cell
Semiconductor device that converts sunlight directly into electrical current through the photoelectric effect.
Efficiency
Ratio of usable electrical energy to incident solar energy -- indicates the effectiveness of a solar cell or system.
Thin-Film
Solar cell technology in which extremely thin semiconductor layers are deposited onto a substrate material.