Prof Tsutomu Miyasaka is a leading candidate for the Nobel Prize due to his groundbreaking work in the field of solar energy. In 2009, Miyasaka made a significant discovery in the realm of ‘dye-sensitised solar cells’ by experimenting with a new class of materials known as ‘perovskites’. These crystal structure-based materials proved to be excellent at absorbing light, despite their inherent instability.
At the time of Miyasaka’s discovery, perovskite solar cells had a conversion efficiency of just 3.8 percent. However, researchers quickly recognized the potential for improvement in this area. Through ongoing research and development efforts, innovative techniques have been devised to enhance the stability of perovskite solar cells, paving the way for their widespread use in solar farms.
One of the key advancements in this field is the development of ‘silicon-perovskite tandem’ cells, which combine the benefits of perovskites with traditional monocrystalline solar cells to achieve conversion efficiencies exceeding 30 percent. This leap in efficiency is poised to revolutionize the solar energy industry and drive down prices significantly.
While China has been a frontrunner in the development of high-efficiency solar cells, India is not far behind. Indian researchers, particularly at institutions like IIT-Bombay and IIT-Roorkee, have made significant strides in this area. Professors Dinesh Kabra and Trilok Singh have successfully developed perovskite tandem cells with impressive efficiency rates. Additionally, Indian startups like Perovskite Innovation are gaining recognition and support for their contributions to the field.
Funding from sources like the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and collaborations with industry leaders like First Solar and Waaree are driving further advancements in high-efficiency solar cell technology in India. As the global shift towards silicon-perovskite tandem cells accelerates, India stands to benefit from these developments and make significant contributions to the renewable energy sector.
In the coming years, as silicon-perovskite tandem cells become more prevalent, the positive impact on solar energy prices will be substantial. With continued research and investment, India can position itself as a key player in the high-efficiency solar cell market and contribute to the ongoing transition towards sustainable energy solutions.
