Increasing Solar Panel Efficiency With New Germanium Selenide And Tin Sulfide
By John Oncea, Editor
Lehigh University researchers developed germanium selenide and tin sulfide materials demonstrating photovoltaic absorption of 80% efficiency in solar cells, far exceeding the theoretical Shockley-Queisser efficiency limit for silicon-based materials.
In a “significant advancement,” physicists at Lehigh University have developed atomically thin CuxGeSe/SnS, a quantum material that has the potential to revolutionize the field of renewable energy. “This work represents a significant leap forward in our understanding and development of sustainable energy solutions, highlighting innovative approaches that could redefine solar energy efficiency and accessibility soon,” said Professor Chinedu Ekuma.
The innovative research, led by Ekuma and doctoral student Srihari Kastuar, has resulted in a prototype solar cell that exhibits an average photovoltaic absorption of 80%, writes Lehigh University. This achievement pushes the boundaries of quantum materials in photovoltaics, with the new cell demonstrating an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of up to 190%.
The key to this breakthrough lies in the unique properties of the new materials: germanium selenide and tin sulfide. The researchers have engineered these quantum materials to possess intermediate band states, which are specific energy levels positioned within the material’s electronic structure. These states are ideally suited for solar energy conversion, with energy levels within the optimal subband gaps of around 0.78 and 1.26 electron volts.
This development is particularly significant as it overcomes the limitations set by the Shockley-Queisser efficiency limit, which has long been considered the theoretical maximum for silicon-based solar cells. By surpassing this limit, the Lehigh University team has opened up new possibilities for the future of solar energy technology.
The timing of this breakthrough couldn't be more opportune. Lehigh University has recently completed a major sustainability initiative, addressing 100% of its electricity consumption with renewable energy certificates. The centerpiece of this initiative is an on-campus solar array that became operational in late 2024, according to Lehigh University.
“The on-campus solar array, one of the plan’s key elements, will enable the university to save money, reduce emissions, and be more energy efficient,” a university spokesperson stated. With the new advancements in solar cell efficiency, Lehigh University is poised to further enhance its commitment to sustainable energy.
The potential applications of this technology extend beyond just improving solar panel efficiency. The high absorption rate and carrier generation capabilities of these new materials could lead to the development of more compact and powerful solar cells. This could revolutionize various sectors, from residential solar installations to large-scale solar farms, and even space-based solar power systems.
Moreover, the use of germanium and tin in these new materials addresses some of the supply chain concerns associated with current solar cell technologies. Unlike some rare earth elements used in existing high-efficiency solar cells, germanium and tin are more abundant and accessible, potentially reducing the cost and environmental impact of solar cell production.
The research team is now focusing on optimizing the manufacturing process for these new materials and scaling up production for commercial applications. They are also exploring potential partnerships with solar industry leaders to accelerate the adoption of this technology.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and the need for clean, renewable energy sources, breakthroughs like this one from Lehigh University offer hope for a more sustainable future. The ability to dramatically increase solar cell efficiency could accelerate the global transition to renewable energy, reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
The implications of this research extend beyond just the field of solar energy. The insights gained from developing these quantum materials could potentially be applied to other areas of materials science and quantum technology, spurring further innovations in fields such as quantum computing and advanced electronics.
While the research is still in its early stages, the potential impact of this breakthrough cannot be overstated. If successfully commercialized, these new materials could lead to a new generation of ultra-efficient solar panels, capable of generating significantly more power from the same amount of sunlight compared to current technologies.
As we look to the future, it's clear that innovations like these will play a crucial role in shaping our energy landscape. With continued research and development, we may soon see solar panels that can convert a much higher percentage of sunlight into usable electricity, making solar power an even more viable and attractive option for meeting our global energy needs.
The work at Lehigh University serves as a testament to the power of scientific research and innovation in addressing some of our most pressing global challenges. As we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in renewable energy technology, we move closer to a future powered by clean, abundant, and efficient solar energy.