As a result, there is a lot of interest in alternative materials to silicon for solar photovoltaic cells. A few promising new materials include dye-sensitized solar cells, organic photovoltaics, perovskite solar cells, and quantum dot photovoltaics. A key feature in evaluating these alternative solar photovoltaic materials is their cell efficiency.
Solar cells that combine traditional silicon with cutting-edge perovskites could push the efficiency of solar panels to new heights. Beyond Silicon, Caelux, First Solar, Hanwha Q Cells, Oxford PV, Swift Solar, Tandem PV 3 to 5 years In November 2023, a buzzy solar technology broke yet another world record for efficiency.
Silicon photovoltaic cells are the most common type of solar panels available today. They are more efficient in converting light into energy and are cheaper to produce than other types of cells. Silicon panels also last longer, which means less cost on maintenance and replacements. However, silicon is an expensive and bulky solar PV cell.
Another great alternative to silicon PVs are asphalt shingle solar panels. First introduced by GAF in 2022, the Timberline Solar line of solar shingles are the first in the world and won multiple awards because of innovation. Learn more about it below from PR Newswire.
Compared to silicon PV cells, organic PV cells are less efficient and can be manufactured using less energy. However, organic PV cells are more flexible, lighter and cheaper to produce than silicon PV cells. Another great alternative to silicon PVs are asphalt shingle solar panels.
Researchers have demonstrated how a non-toxic alternative to lead could form the basis of next-generation solar cells. We’re just scratching the surface of what these compounds can do.