KAUST researchers found that inserting a magnesium fluoride layer in perovskite–silicon tandem solar cells can stall charge recombination and enhance performance. The magnesium fluoride interlayer effectively promoted electron extraction from the perovskite active layer and reduced charge recombination at the interface. The resulting tandem solar cell achieved a stabilized power conversion efficiency of 29.1%. Why it matters: Improving the efficiency of solar cells is critical for expanding renewable energy capacity in Saudi Arabia and worldwide.
KAUST researcher Erkan Aydin is focusing his research on space-grade photovoltaics, driven by the increasing demand for low-cost solar cells due to the boom in space travel. Aydin notes that existing high-performance photovoltaics are too expensive and cannot meet the projected demand from mega-satellite constellations. He believes perovskite-tandem solar cells offer a cheaper and more scalable alternative, with the main challenge being stabilizing the cells against space extremes. Why it matters: This research aims to address a critical need in the rapidly expanding space industry, potentially positioning KAUST as a leader in developing cost-effective and scalable solar solutions for space applications.
KAUST researchers have developed a perovskite/silicon tandem solar cell with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 33.2%, surpassing the previous record of 32.5% held by Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin (HZB). The tandem device was certified by the European Solar Test Installation (ESTI) and listed at the top of the NREL efficiency chart. The cell combines perovskite top cells for blue light absorption with silicon bottom cells for red light absorption. Why it matters: This breakthrough could accelerate the adoption of high-performance photovoltaic modules, which is critical for achieving global renewable energy goals.
KAUST's Solar & Photovoltaics Engineering Research Center (SPERC) was officially inaugurated with a two-day seminar featuring international solar energy experts. The event included discussions on developing the solar energy manufacturing industry in Saudi Arabia and a memorandum of understanding between KAUST and the Centre for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) to develop thin-film photovoltaic technology. ZSW holds the world record in thin-film photovoltaics cells efficiency, achieving a rate of 20.8%. Why it matters: This initiative signifies KAUST's commitment to becoming a regional hub for renewable energy and photovoltaics, fostering collaboration between research and industry to advance solar energy development in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST researchers have fabricated and tested high-efficiency perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells optimized for hot climates. The tandem device is more stable than conventional perovskite cells and optimized for industry use. Outdoor testing at KAUST confirmed performance improvements, indicating bromide-lean perovskite top cells with narrower bandgaps are ideal. Why it matters: The research demonstrates the viability of tandem silicon-perovskite cells in harsh environments, paving the way for more efficient solar technology in the region and globally.
A KAUST research team led by Prof. Osman Bakr developed a novel antisolvent vapor-assisted crystallization (AVC) method to grow high-quality, crack-free MAPbX3 perovskite single crystals at room temperature. The resulting crystals exceeded 100 mm3 in volume and exhibited exceptionally low trap-state density (approximately 10^9 – 10^10 cm-3). The crystal quality is comparable to high-quality single crystal silicon, but grown at much lower temperatures. Why it matters: This breakthrough allows for more accurate characterization of perovskite photovoltaic properties and can accelerate improvements in solar cell efficiency.
The KAUST Solar Future 2014 meeting was held on the university's campus from November 7-11, hosted by the Solar & Photovoltaics Engineering Research Center (SPERC). Over 30 speakers from KAUST and international universities discussed current and future advances in solar and photovoltaic technologies. The meeting facilitated interactions between visiting professors, KAUST faculty, and students, with poster sessions allowing students to present their work. Why it matters: Such events promote KAUST's mission to become a leading institution in renewable energy science and engineering and attract new talent to the university.
Researchers from KAUST and University of Toronto have created a two-sided perovskite/silicon tandem solar cell that exceeds the performance limits for tandem configurations. The bifacial design captures both direct sunlight and light reflected from the ground (albedo). Outdoor testing demonstrated efficiencies beyond commercial silicon solar panels. Why it matters: This innovation promises ultra-high power generation at affordable costs, potentially revolutionizing the photovoltaics market in the region and globally.