In the past decades, photovoltaics has established itself as one of the central technologies for sustainable energy generation. The efficiency and economy of solar systems have been steadily improved by continuous research and development. Science and industry are currently focusing on innovative approaches to make the use of solar energy even more versatile and effective. Accordingly, there are many current research fields in the field of photovoltaics.
Perowskit solar cells enable efficiency increase through new materials
Perowskit materials have aroused considerable interest in recent years because they offer the potential to significantly increase the efficiency of solar cells. These materials are characterized by their excellent optoelectronic properties and enable the absorption of a wide range of sunlight. This significantly optimizes the efficiency of the individual solar cells. This also makes sense from an ecological point of view, since photovoltaic systems last longer and have to be replaced less frequently.
Goals of current research in this area
Current research work focuses on improving the stability and service life of perovsky solar cells in order to enable their use in commercial applications. The combination of perovskit layers with conventional silicon solar cells could result in tandem solar cells in the future that achieve efficiency of over 30 %. The various work thus has a scientific and a purely practical benefit.
Flexible and light solar cells through organic photovoltaics
Organic photovoltaics (OPV) uses organic molecules or polymers for light absorption and load separation. One advantage of this technology is to produce flexible, light and semi -transparent solar cells that are suitable for a variety of applications.
Research aims to increase the efficiency and stability of OPV cells. By developing new materials and optimizing the cell architecture Efficiency can be achieved of over 17 %. Nevertheless, further improvements are necessary to compete with established technologies. This includes, for example:
- Material research to achieve a higher efficiency
- Achievement of higher stability and durability
- Weather resistance due to higher protection against moisture, oxygen and UV light
- Improved sustainability through recyclable materials
- Possibilities for efficient integration into existing systems
- Increase in the light absorption
Solar windows for energy generation through transparent modules
An innovative research field in the field of photovoltaics is the Further development of Solar windowcombine transparency with energy generation. These windows integrate photovoltaic materials that absorb the incident light and convert it into electrical energy without significantly affecting through view. For example, transparent solar windows use quantum points to manipulate light and use it for electricity generation. The efficiency is currently 3.6 %, with further improvements being sought.
Strengthen bifacial solar cells
Bifacial solar cells are able to use both direct sunlight on the front and reflected light on the back. This enables a higher energy yield per area compared to monofacial modules. Current research work deals with the optimization of the design and the selection of materials to maximize the bifacial factor. In addition, suitable assembly systems are developed that ensure optimal light output on both sides of the modules.
Bifacial solar cells on today’s market
Although there is still a great need for research, there are already bifacial solar cells on the market. Due to their increasing distribution in large solar parks and building -integrated applications, bifacial modules make a decisive contribution to sustainable energy generation. This technology increases efficiency by up to 30 %, which reduces the electricity costs and improve the profitability of photovoltaic systems.
Photovoltaic thermia combination for double use of solar energy
The combination of photovoltaics (PV) and solar thermal (ST) in a system enables the simultaneous generation of electrical current and heat. Such hybrid collectors efficiently use the entire range of solar radiation and thus increase the overall efficiency. Research focuses on the development of materials and designs that optimize both electrical and thermal energy generation. Challenges lie in the efficient heat removal and the integration of such systems in existing infrastructures.
Release synergies through agricultural photovoltaics
Agricultural photovoltaics (AGRI-PV) combines agricultural use with the production of solar power by installing photovoltaic systems over agricultural areas. This enables double land use and contributes to increasing area efficiency. Research projects examine the effects of AGRI PV on plant growth, soil quality and the microclimate. The aim is to develop concepts that optimize both agricultural production and energy generation without negative interactions.
The interest of farmers in agricultural photovoltaics
A survey by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) showed that 72.4 % of the farmers surveyed in Germany are willing to use agri photovoltaics on their premises. A further survey by the German Agricultural Society (DLG) shows that over half of the participating farmers would invest in an open-air photovoltaic system, with another third considering this, provided that agricultural use of the areas is still possible. These results illustrate a high interest of farmers in agricultural-photovoltaic systems, especially if they offer an additional source of income and do not affect agricultural management.
Life cycle of photovoltaic modules
With the increasing use of photovoltaics, the importance of recycling and sustainability increases. The development of methods for recycling materials from used solar modules is crucial to protect resources and minimize environmental pollution. Research focuses on the efficient separation and reprocessing of materials such as silicon, glass and metals. In addition, more environmentally friendly production processes are being developed, which are intended to further reduce the ecological footprint of photovoltaics.
Exciting developments can be expected in the coming years
Photovoltaics are in a dynamic development phase in which numerous innovative approaches are pursued to make the use of solar energy even more efficient and versatile. From new materials such as perovskites to multifunctional applications such as solar windows to sustainable concepts in recycling, the current research fields reflect the endeavors to promote the energy transition and to secure a sustainable future.
21.03.2025