Record-efficient 28% solar cell achieved in renewable energy breakthrough
The development could help improve solar power production and expand the use of advanced energy systems worldwide.
The breakthrough was achieved by researchers at the Institute of Chemistry under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). Their findings were published in the internationally recognized scientific journal Nature.
Scientists developed a new perovskite-organic tandem solar cell with a certified steady-state power conversion efficiency of 28.04 percent. The research team also recorded a peak laboratory efficiency of 28.80 percent.
Experts say the result places the technology among the most efficient tandem solar cells ever created. The achievement highlights China’s growing role in the global race for advanced clean energy solutions.
The new solar cell combines a wide-bandgap perovskite top layer with an organic bottom layer. This design allows the device to absorb a wider range of sunlight than traditional solar technologies.
Researchers explained that the perovskite layer captures visible light efficiently. At the same time, the organic layer absorbs near-infrared light, increasing overall energy conversion.
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The improved structure helps generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight. This gives the technology a clear advantage over many conventional silicon-based solar panels.
Durability has long been one of the biggest challenges for perovskite solar cells. However, the research team reported that the new device retained 90 percent of its original efficiency after 625 hours of continuous illumination.
Scientists believe this level of stability is a major step toward commercial use. Improved durability could make the technology more practical for large-scale deployment.
According to CAS academician Li Yongfang, the innovation offers several important benefits. These include lightweight construction, mechanical flexibility, and exceptionally high efficiency.
He said the technology’s strong power-to-weight ratio makes it particularly useful for satellites and space stations. Future space missions could also benefit from lighter and more efficient solar power systems.
One of the key obstacles in perovskite solar cell development has been material instability under prolonged sunlight exposure. This problem occurs when iodine and bromine separate within the material, reducing performance over time.
To solve the issue, researchers introduced a specially engineered molecule known as TDB into the perovskite film. During exposure to light, TDB transforms into TAB, which helps stabilize the material and prevent degradation.
Researcher Meng Lei said solving this long-standing challenge greatly improves the commercial prospects of the technology. The advancement could bring perovskite solar cells closer to widespread real-world use.
The achievement comes as countries around the world compete to develop more efficient renewable energy technologies. Governments and companies are searching for solutions that can generate more power at lower costs.
Experts believe tandem solar cells may eventually outperform traditional silicon panels in many applications. These include rooftop solar systems, portable electronics, aerospace projects, and other specialized industries.
If commercialized successfully, the technology could speed up the global shift toward cleaner energy sources. It may also open new opportunities for flexible and lightweight solar panels where conventional systems are difficult to use.
This breakthrough addresses two major goals in solar technology: higher efficiency and better durability. Both factors are critical for making advanced solar cells commercially viable.
If the technology continues to perform well outside the laboratory, it could become an important part of future clean energy systems. The innovation may also strengthen competition in the global renewable energy market.
