TU Delft Increases Solar Module Efficiency by 25%
Delft, Friday, 31 January 2025.
Researchers at TU Delft have enhanced solar module efficiency, achieving over 25% energy yield improvement, potentially revolutionizing solar energy systems worldwide.
Breakthrough Research Details
Scientists at TU Delft have made significant strides in solar technology by investigating the impact of rear irradiance on bifacial two-terminal perovskite-silicon tandem modules [1]. The research, published on January 30, 2025, demonstrates that these optimized bifacial tandems yield over 25% more energy compared to traditional bifacial single junction modules, and up to 5% more than monofacial tandem modules [1]. The team, led by corresponding author Youri Blom, focused on modeling aspects to improve photovoltaic device performance under real-world conditions [1].
Technical Specifications and Global Applications
The research utilized a reference 32.5%-efficient perovskite-silicon tandem cell from Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) [1]. The experimental setup involved 72 modules, each measuring 15.7 cm x 15.7 cm, installed 0.5 m above ground with specific spacing parameters [1]. The team optimized the system for diverse geographical locations, including Delft (Netherlands), Shanghai (China), Lagos (Nigeria), and Lisbon (Portugal), demonstrating the technology’s global applicability [1]. The optimal bandgap energy for perovskite cells was determined to range from 1.61 to 1.65 eV, with an optimal thickness of 650–750 nm [1].
Context in Global Solar Innovation
This advancement comes at a crucial time in solar technology development. The industry has seen remarkable progress, with recent achievements including JinkoSolar’s announcement of a 33.84% efficiency for their perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell [3]. Trina Solar has also made strides, achieving 25.44% efficiency in n-type fully passivated heterojunction solar modules [3]. TU Delft’s research builds upon these developments, contributing to the broader goal of creating more cost-effective and efficient solar power solutions [GPT].
Future Implications
The research team is currently planning to analyze production costs and cost-competitive tandem designs [1]. This work aligns with TU Delft’s broader institutional goals, as demonstrated through their Urban Energy Institute, which aims to achieve a carbon-free urban energy system in the Netherlands by 2050 [5]. The breakthrough could significantly impact the acceleration of sustainable energy adoption, particularly in urban environments where space efficiency is crucial [GPT].