Australian researchers have achieved a significant breakthrough in solar technology by enhancing the efficiency of perovskite solar cells to **30.6 percent** through the incorporation of a **graphene** layer. This advancement emerged from a collaboration between Halocell Energy and the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), initiated in **2023** with the goal of commercializing the technology.
The introduction of graphene, a lightweight and highly conductive material derived from graphite, allows for a reduction in the reliance on expensive materials like gold and silver for conductivity. The manufacturing process utilizes **roll-to-roll dispersion technology**, a method that facilitates the addition of extra layers to flexible substrates, including solar panels.
Halocell Energy has reported that this innovation nearly doubles the efficiency of their solar cells. CEO **Paul Moonie** emphasized the significance of this development, stating that the addition of graphene contributes to a “suite” of low-cost materials tailored for various solar applications. This material will be featured in their **Ambient PV** range, which is already available for purchase, as well as in solar modules designed for drones and satellites.
The research project has received substantial support, including a grant of **$2.03 million** from the federal Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P), aimed at fostering collaboration with QUT. Earlier in **April**, QUT researchers established a new efficiency record for perovskite technology, while in **July**, Dr. Minh Tam Hoang from the School of Chemistry and Physics at QUT was awarded a grant to investigate the toxicity and instability associated with metal halide perovskite materials.
Dr. Hoang noted, “Australia needs better fabrication processes for next-generation perovskite solar cells so we can increase market adoption of commercially viable technology with minimal risk in production.” He highlighted ongoing efforts to develop greener manufacturing processes and perovskite solar cells based on tin rather than lead. This initiative aims to produce cleaner, safer, and environmentally responsible solar panels.
Perovskite materials have long been regarded as a promising alternative for creating lightweight and flexible solar modules, capable of being easily applied to various surfaces while maintaining competitive efficiency with traditional silicon-based photovoltaic cells. Nevertheless, challenges such as achieving optimal material variations for efficiency, cost, and durability have hindered their commercial viability.
Recent developments suggest that these obstacles are gradually being overcome. Companies like California’s **Caelux** have begun shipping perovskite glass, and Halocell has been successfully marketing indoor solar cells in Australia for small electronic devices since last year.
To meet rising demand, Halocell is expanding its manufacturing capacity in **Wagga Wagga** by adding more roll-to-roll lines, aiming for an ambitious target of producing **60 million units** annually.
The research and advancements in perovskite solar technology signal a pivotal moment in the renewable energy sector, potentially reshaping the landscape of solar energy solutions in the near future.
