Advancements in Carbon Electrode Solar Cells Boost Efficiency and Stability, Sparking Conference Interest Among Researchers.

Researchers have made significant advancements in carbon electrode perovskite solar cells (c-PSC) which use carbon electrode back contacts to create low-temperature cell processes with fewer steps, while ensuring stability. In February, devices with 21.2% power conversion efficiency, as well as 19.6%-efficient mini- modules with stability above 4,390 hours, were reported in Nature Energy. In June, the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) published a paper showcasing a c-PSPC with a 21.0% efficiency in ACS Energy Letters, while Chinese and US researchers reported a 20.8% efficiency. With stability and efficiency on an upwards trajectory, there are now enough companies and research teams exploring the technology to merit a conference, which has attracted 34 speakers and more than 220 participants to participate in October. The ability to print the all or most of the cell stack is also a big part of the appeal of carbon electrodes, and the cell stacks can be printed with low capital expenditure.