Qcells Breaks New Ground with Record Efficiency in Solar Technology
In a groundbreaking advancement for solar energy technology, Qcells has announced that it has achieved a new world record for tandem solar cell efficiency, reaching an impressive 28.6%. This milestone was verified through independent measurements conducted by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems CalLab. The achievement marks a significant progression for the company, which has only been developing large-area tandem solutions since 2023.
Tandem solar cells, which utilize both perovskite and silicon technologies, have long been seen as the future of solar energy efficiency. By stacking a perovskite top cell with a silicon bottom cell, these systems can capture high-energy light more effectively in the top layer while allowing lower-energy light to be absorbed in the silicon layer beneath. As a result, these tandem cells can increase power output per area, which not only enhances efficiency but also reduces the number of solar modules needed to achieve the desired energy output. This could significantly lower the costs associated with solar energy production, offering a more sustainable and accessible energy solution.
Danielle Merfeld, Global Chief Technology Officer at Qcells, emphasized the importance of this technological advancement in commercializing high-efficiency solar cells. "The tandem cell technology developed at Qcells will accelerate the commercialization process of this technology and, ultimately, deliver a great leap forward in photovoltaic performance," she stated. The record-setting cell was produced using Qcells' proprietary Q.ANTUM technology for the bottom cell, combined with cutting-edge perovskite technology for the top cell. Both layers utilize methods that are feasible for mass production rather than being limited to laboratory-scale proof of concepts.
The M10-sized cell, which measures approximately 0.36 square feet (or 330.56 cm²), was created on Qcells' research and development pilot line located in Germany. This entire initiative aligns with the company's strategy to focus on scalable manufacturing processes that can meet the demands of the solar market, instead of just emphasizing theoretical efficiency gains.
Since 2016, Qcells has dedicated considerable resources to the research and development of tandem solar cells, compounded by significant investments from both national and international institutions. Their projects in Germany and Korea have received vital support from local governments and organizations, which underscores the global effort towards achieving more sustainable energy solutions. The Bitterfeld-Wolfen RD Center in Germany, in particular, has benefitted from funding by the German government and the EU, paving the way for renewable energy innovations within Europe.
Moreover, Qcells' expansion of its R&D capabilities to its facility in Pangyo, Korea, has greatly contributed to the progress in this field. The research center focuses on developing tandem cell technology that is not only efficient but also commercially viable. Robert Bauer, the Head of Qcells RD in Germany, noted that this record efficiency set the stage for the future commercialization of these groundbreaking technologies.
In summary, the achievement of a 28.6% efficiency in solar tandem cells positions Qcells at the forefront of the solar energy market, presenting a viable path toward more powerful, cost-effective, and sustainable solar technology. As the world faces growing energy demands, innovations such as Qcells' tandem solar cells could play a crucial role in addressing future energy challenges while pushing for a greener planet.