Australian researchers have achieved a significant breakthrough in solar technology by enhancing the efficiency of perovskite solar cells to an impressive 30.6 percent. This advancement comes from the collaboration between the solar cell company Halocell Energy and the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), established in 2023 to commercialize this promising technology.
The key to this development lies in the incorporation of a graphene layer, a lightweight and highly conductive material derived from graphite. Researchers found that applying this layer can be efficiently accomplished using roll-to-roll dispersion technology, a method commonly used to incorporate additional layers into flexible substrates such as solar panels. According to Halocell, this innovation has nearly doubled the efficiency of their perovskite cells.
Commercial Applications and Future Prospects
Halocell’s CEO, Paul Moonie, emphasized the potential of this new material, stating, “We now have a suite of low-cost materials for various solar applications.” The graphene-enhanced cells will be integrated into Halocell’s Ambient PV range, which is currently available for purchase, as well as in their drone and satellite photovoltaic modules.
The company has received a substantial $2.03 million grant from the federal Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) to support this research in partnership with QUT. Earlier in April, a QUT team set a new efficiency record for perovskite technology. In July, Dr. Minh Tam Hoang from the School of Chemistry and Physics at QUT secured funding to investigate the toxicity and instability of metal halide perovskite materials. Dr. Hoang noted, “Australia needs better fabrication processes for next-generation perovskite solar cells to increase market adoption.”
Addressing Challenges in Solar Technology
Perovskite materials have long been seen as a viable solution for creating lightweight, flexible solar modules that can be easily applied to various surfaces. They promise a cost-effective alternative to traditional silicon-based photovoltaic materials. However, challenges such as durability and efficiency have hindered their commercial viability.
Researchers have been working to refine these materials for optimal performance while ensuring that they remain affordable and durable. With companies like California’s Caelux beginning to ship perovskite glass and Halocell already selling indoor cells for small electronics in Australia, the market is slowly evolving. Halocell is also expanding its facility in Wagga Wagga to increase production capacity, aiming for a target of 60 million units per year.
As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, innovations like this could play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of solar technology. For those interested in staying updated on renewable energy developments, subscribing to Halocell’s newsletter offers a way to receive the latest news directly.
