New advancements in solar cells have led to a significant breakthrough in power efficiency.
PV Magazine reported that Solarlab Aiko Europe's most recent 2T perovskite-silicon tandem lab-scale cell reached a power conversion efficiency of 34.76%. Perovskite tandem solar cells use perovskite, a mineral known for light absorption, as at least one of the panel's active layers.
Perovskite solar cells have garnered attention in the solar industry because they're not only cost-effective to manufacture but also more energy-efficient. Solarlab Aiko Europe emphasized its potential efficiency at the Become PV 2025 conference in Brussels, where the company presented its latest and most impressive research findings.
2T tandem cells typically stack perovskite with other materials, such as silicon, to capture more sunlight and boost efficiency. Bhaskar Singh, an R&D team leader at Solarlab Aiko Europe, noted how 2T perovskite-silicon tandem cells offer a scalable manufacturing solution.
Singh also discussed the team's advances in 3T tandem cells, which further boost efficiency. Unlike 2T tandem cells, 3T cells don't require the top and bottom cells to match, offering "greater flexibility in module design to enable more efficient use of materials and reduced costs," Singh told PV Magazine.
Solarlab Aiko Europe noted that its early testing of the 3T tandem cells has generated "higher energy yields and a lower levelized cost of electricity." As advancements in solar cell manufacturing continue to improve efficiency, solar energy has become even more viable for homeowners looking to slash their energy costs and safeguard their homes against rising electricity costs.
Smart upgrades that slash monthly energy bills
For homeowners looking to boost their household's energy efficiency, installing solar panels is one of the best ways to do so. You'll not only save money on utility bills but will also decrease your home's pollution output.
• EnergySage can help you save up to $10,000 on installations by curating competitive bids from local installers
• Not ready to spend up front? Palmetto's $0-down LightReach solar leasing program can lower your utility rate by up to 20%
• TCD's Solar Explorer makes it easy to access exclusive offers from preferred partners
Pairing solar panels with other electric appliances, such as a heat pump or an induction stove, can further improve your home's energy efficiency. As you make efficiency updates to your home, you can earn rewards. The Palmetto Home app is free and allows you to unlock up to $5,000 in rewards to spend on home upgrades.
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