The research could propel silicon solar cells beyond their current efficiency limits, aiming for over 30% efficiency by 2030.Â
Scientists are on the verge of significantly enhancing the efficiency of next-generation solar cells by integrating a process that splits light particles, known as photons, into smaller chunks. This process, called singlet fission, has been investigated in a recent study published in Nature Chemistry. The research, led by Professor Tim Schmidt from UNSW Sydney’s School of Chemistry, delves into the mechanics of singlet fission and its potential applications in improving silicon solar cell technologies.
Current silicon solar cells absorb photons, converting them to electricity, but a significant portion of this light is lost as heat, limiting efficiency. Professor Ned Ekins-Daukes from UNSW’s School of Photovoltaics & Renewable Energy Engineering notes that while silicon technology is affordable, it is approaching its performance limits. Industrial collaborator LONGi recorded the maximum efficiency at 27.3%, while the theoretical limit is 29.4%. The researchers aim to understand and utilize singlet fission, a complex process where one photon splits into two. Using magnetic fields to manipulate light wavelengths, the study provides insights into this process, which hasn’t been thoroughly explored before. Different light colors have photons with varying energies; excess energy often turns into heat. By introducing singlet fission into silicon solar panels, the efficiency could be increased by converting higher energy photons more effectively.
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has funded UNSW’s singlet fission project through its Ultra Low Cost Solar program. This initiative aims to achieve solar cell efficiencies greater than 30% at costs below 30 cents per watt by 2030. The team, in collaboration with industry partners, used a single-wavelength laser and electromagnets to slow down and study the singlet fission process, making it easier to observe and understand. With a deeper scientific grasp of singlet fission, the researchers plan to develop and prototype enhanced silicon solar cells, further collaborating with industry partners to commercialize the technology. Professors Schmidt and Ekins-Daukes are optimistic about achieving silicon solar cell efficiencies above 30%, marking a significant advancement in solar technology.
