Can Efficiency, Stability and Commercial Viability be Combined in Perovskite-Based Tandem Solar Cells?

Wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells (PSCs) show great potential in tandem configurations with silicon. However, the commercialization of state-of-the-art wide-bandgap PSCs is hindered by two main challenges: interface recombination losses and material degradation. To overcome these barriers, our research has focused on developing novel interface materials and innovative device design concepts. Our recent work represents a significant step forward in stabilizing wide-bandgap PSCs.

In our study, we used temperature as the primary stress factor, monitoring PSC output under controlled indoor conditions at temperatures ranging from 65°C to 110°C. The data from these accelerated tests was modeled using the Arrhenius equation to estimate field lifetimes. The projected operational lifetimes across different temperatures converged at 45,000 hours, aligning with the extrapolated T80 lifetime from room-temperature measurements. Additionally, considering global horizontal irradiance in different regions, the converted lifetimes suggest that PSCs could last 25 years under outdoor conditions in areas such as Singapore, Japan, and most parts of the U.S. In this presentation, I will explore the underlying design principles of perovskites and explain how we plan to unlock the vast potential of this technology in various tandem configurations.

I will emphasize the advantages and future prospects of these developments. Furthermore, I will discuss the design rationale for wide-bandgap perovskites in achieving record performances, including ~30% efficiency in perovskite/CIGS 4-terminal tandems and over 27% efficiency in triple-junction perovskite/perovskite/silicon tandems, with NREL certification. I will demonstrate how perovskite-based tandem solar cells have achieved high efficiencies and unveil the enormous potential of this technology. The progress reported here illustrates the power and feasibility of integrating traditional photovoltaic technologies with perovskites in tandem configurations.