What is the Project?
Oxford PV is pioneering the future of energy with its groundbreaking approach to solar technology. At the core is Perovskite PV—a manufactured material synthesized from readily available, earth-abundant raw materials. Perovskite’s excellent and highly tunable sunlight absorption properties makes it the optimum material for solar applications. In simple terms, any solar cell containing perovskite qualifies as Perovskite PV. This includes everything from perovskite-only solar cells to sophisticated multijunction systems where perovskite is paired with other absorber materials. The innovation doesn’t stop there… the integration of perovskite with silicon in tandem cell configurations is capturing attention, as it pushes the boundaries of efficiency while staying true to standard production methods.
Main Benefit
Oxford PV’s tandem solar cells are redefining what sustainable power can be. The integration of a perovskite top cell directly over a silicon bottom cell results in enhanced efficiency, increased energy output, and reduced environmental impact. The key figures and facts include:
- 43% Theoretical efficiency of perovskite silicon tandem
- 10+ Years lifetime warranty for module products available today
- 30TW+ energy yield potential from perovskite tandem without supply chain concerns for raw materials
- 7% less carbon intensity compared with mainstream silicon
- 20%+ more clean energy produced relative to traditional silicon-only systems
Understanding Tandem Solar Technology
The concept behind tandem cells is both elegant and effective. On clear days, the sun’s light displays a vibrant palette—from deep reds at dawn and dusk to brilliant blues during the day. Traditional silicon solar cells capture light primarily at the red end of the spectrum, whereas perovskite cells can be fine-tuned to absorb at the blue end. Think about it—by combining both, a tandem cell harnesses more of the sun’s energy than a single-cell system could ever manage. This dual approach ensures more efficient light absorption, resulting in a higher overall energy yield, all without changing the physical size of the cell. It’s a clever twist that promises a brighter, cleaner future.
The Process Behind Tandem Cell Manufacturing
The manufacture of these advanced tandem cells is impressively streamlined. It starts with selecting a silicon bottom cell, and while perovskite is compatible with various silicon technologies, Oxford PV’s production process at its German site relies on high-performance HJT cells. Next, using a series of thin-film deposition methods, the perovskite top cell is carefully coated directly on top of the silicon cell. This step is critical as it ensures the tandem cell can capture and convert more sunlight. Finally, after rigorous testing, the individual cells are assembled into fully functional solar modules via standard industrial techniques and customized according to customer specifications. The process is simple, efficient, and designed to meet high performance and durability standards.
Customizable Perovskite Solutions
Oxford PV’s proprietary perovskite technology is not a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s designed to work in tandem with any silicon bottom cell technology. This versatility means that both flexible and conventional modules can benefit from the revolutionary technology, opening up possibilities from solar parks on the ground to applications in space. The idea is to combine the best features of both materials, harnessing the maximum potential of sunlight without compromising on manufacturing ease or product reliability. It’s that kind of progressive thinking that is setting new benchmarks in solar energy generation, pushing the industry forward through dynamic innovation and adaptability.
OXFORD PV’s Innovation in Solar
The tandem cell configuration is a prime example of technological innovation building on the proven foundation of silicon technology. The perovskite top cell is not only efficient but also integrates seamlessly with the silicon bottom cell, offering a tandem approach that redefines the limits of clean energy production. Oxford PV’s leadership in this field is evident through its commitment to developing solutions that are easy to make, easy to explain, and, importantly, easy to scale up using standard industrial processes. The entire operation is a harmonious blend of advanced science and practical engineering, proving that sometimes two components really are better than one.
Project Impact Through Sustainable Development
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – This technology supports wider access to clean, renewable energy.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – It exemplifies how innovative engineering meets industrial demands.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – By reducing carbon intensity, the tandem technology aids in combating climate change.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Perovskite in Solar
Envision a future where solar energy systems are more efficient, durable, and accessible than ever before… Perovskite PV, a flagship of Oxford PV’s research, is leading the charge by transforming solar technology with its tandem cell design. The integration of perovskite with silicon illustrates a commitment to leveraging the strengths of both materials while addressing the challenges of today’s energy demands. As the technology matures, it is anticipated that further improvements in tandem cell efficiency and production scalability will pave the way for broader adoption across different markets—from vast solar parks to innovative, flexible module applications. This is a significant step towards reducing global reliance on fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions, and making clean energy available to a broader audience. With each innovation, the pathway to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future becomes clearer, engaging communities and industries alike in the pursuit of renewable energy solutions.
