Japan-based solar company Solar Frontier recently created a record-setting thin-film solar cell that converts 19.7 percent of solar energy to electricity.
The world-record efficiency level was reached thanks to a partnership with Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).
Solar Frontier’s cell broke the previous record of 18.6 percent, which had been set ten years ago.
The record-breaking cells measured about 0.5 square centimeters but were cut from a 30 cm x 30 cm substrate – not specifically developed to be so small – meaning the cells have good potential for commercial development.
Solar Frontier’s Atsugi Research Center. Credit: Solar Frontier
Solar Frontier currently mass produces cells with an efficiency of 13-14.5 percent, but there are high hopes that this new record of efficiency will eventually reach the production line.
“The CIS thin-film modules currently available from Solar Frontier have gained a reputation for high performance in actual power generation, as they are not easily affected by shadows or high temperatures,” said Satoru Kuriyagawa, Chief Technology Officer of Solar Frontier.
“Now, even higher real-world performance can be expected by applying this new basic technology,” he added.
