Here we present an introduction to perovskite thin-film solar cells and explain the technical features of EneCoat Technologies.
Perovskite Thin-Film Solar Cells and Their Position
Perovskite Structure Perovskite structure is a crystalline structure displayed by ABX3 compounds such as perovskite (CaTiO3), and it has been the subject of various research projects such as a photonics or superconductor material.
In the past, perovskite structured materials were synthesized using an inorganic materials approach, but in recent years, it has become possible to create films using wet approaches based on organic chemistry.
EneCoat technology is also using this approach to develop and manufacture perovskite thin-film solar cells.
Perovskite solar cells have a short history in the research and development of solar cells, arriving in the 2010s, but there has been vigorous research and development conducted since then. The diagram shows a comparison of the various types of solar cells. Soon after the arrival of perovskite solar cells, they have been found to exceed 20% generating efficiency, outstripping dye-sensitized solar cells, etc.
Transition of power generation efficiency of each solar cell
※Created based on data from the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Using a low-temperature coating process, it is possible to create a highly uniform thin film as shown in the figure.
Taking advantage of the wet process’s suitability for large areas and mass production, we plan to move forward with Roll to Roll production that is tailored to the application and scale in the future.
Features in Thin-Film Solar Cells
Reached a conversion efficiency of 20% the fastest among the many potential materials for next-generation solar cells
As of Feb. 2019, it holds the world record at the cell size of 24.2%
in Moderate to Low Light Conditions
In addition to bright light (e.g., sunny weather), it maintains relatively high generation efficiency even in moderate (e.g., cloudy weather) or low (e.g., indoor lighting) light conditions
Low-Temperature Coating Process
A low-temperature coating process and the nano-level thin film of the coating layer keep manufacturing costs low
Thin Film, Lightweight, Flexible
A poewr gereration of a thin film is very high for the weight
Using ultra-thin glass and films as a substrate, it enables the creation of both lightweight and flexible solar cells