The latest method of generating electricity with solar panels

How do solar panels work?

One important measure when it comes to solar cells is their efficiency – the proportion of sunlight they can convert into electricity. Almost all solar panels we see today are made from “photovoltaic” silicon cells. When light hits the silicon cell, electrons inside it produce an electric current.

Can tandem solar cells convert sunlight into electricity?

Current commercially available solar panels convert about 20-22% of sunlight into electrical power. However, has shown that future solar panels could reach efficiencies as high as 34% by exploiting a new technology called tandem solar cells. The research demonstrates a record power conversion efficiency for tandem solar cells.

Could solar energy be generated without silicon-based solar panels?

Scientists at Oxford University Physics Department have developed a revolutionary approach which could generate increasing amounts of solar electricity without the need for silicon-based solar panels.

Could a new solar technology make solar panels more efficient?

A new solar technology that combines traditional silicon with perovskites could push the efficiency of solar panels to new heights. This breakthrough, expected within the next 3 to 5 years, could make solar panels more efficient.

What is a solar cell & how does it work?

A solar cell is a device that turns sunlight into electricity. One important measure when it comes to solar cells is their efficiency – the proportion of sunlight they can convert into electricity. Almost all solar panels we see today are made from “photovoltaic” silicon cells.

How efficient are current solar panels?

Today, nearly all solar panels are made from silicon, which have an efficiency of 22%. This means they can only convert about one-fifth of the sun's energy into electricity, as silicon absorbs only a limited proportion of sunlight's wavelengths. Producing silicon is also expensive and energy intensive. Enter perovskite, which shows promise for improving solar panel efficiency.