25% Efficiency Record Shattered: Perovskite Solar Cells

• Breakthrough research at Northwestern Univ. yields record-breaking efficiency for perovskite solar cells. New dual-molecule solution solves electron losses from surface defects & interfaces, achieving 25.1% efficiency. Research builds on prior Nature paper.

Northwestern University researchers have set a new record for the efficiency of perovskite solar cells. The findings, published in Science, describe a dual-molecule solution that addresses electron losses from surface defects and interfaces. The team achieved an NREL certified efficiency of 25.1%, whereas earlier approaches achieved just 24.09%. This is made possible by one molecule that helps reduce surface recombination and a second molecule that disrupts recombination at the interface between layers. The team’s research builds on their Nature paper, which developed a coating to help the cell work at higher temperatures for a longer period. The team hopes to continue improving the complex interface problem by using more molecules to work together.

What Is the Record Efficiency Achieved for Perovskite Solar Cells?

• The new record for perovskite solar cells efficiency is 25.1%.
• The efficiency was achieved using a dual-molecule solution that addresses electron losses from surface defects and interfaces.
• The team's research builds on their previous Nature paper, which developed a coating to help the cell work at higher temperatures for a longer period.
• The team hopes to continue improving the complex interface problem by using more molecules to work together.
  
• The research is important as it could lead to higher yields and longer lifespans for perovskite solar cells.
• Perovskite solar cells are cheaper to produce than traditional silicon based solar cells, making them a more cost effective option.