A group of researchers has developed a new method for producing photovoltaic solar panels that nevertheless allow light to pass through. These translucent solar cells, which may be installed in offices, houses, factories, and other structures, have the potential to spark a new energy revolution. Transparent solar cells may take up less space while providing clean, green energy by simply replacing windows. The researchers were able to create organic solar cells using a novel technology that is easily scalable for mass production. [1]

Figure 1. Scientists Develop Transparent Solar Panels that can be used as Windows

Figure 1 shows the vast majority of solar cells being used today are made up of silicon, which results in the panel being completely opaque. While recent development and research into silicon photovoltaic cells have seen a ramp up, alternative solar cell technologies like organic solar cells are slowly being explored as well even as they lag behind silicon panels in efficiency and lifespan. Forrest’s group of researchers have managed to develop solar cells with record efficiency of 10 percent and a 30-year lifespan. [2]

The main problem with the widespread adoption of organic solar cells is that it was impossible to measure the scale of their manufacturing. Researchers have developed a multistep peel-off patterning technique for this, which can make micron-scale connections. This makes their production easier. These panels have about 50 per cent transparency and greenish tint. This makes them fit for commercial use. If these solar panels are implemented in the future, then it can be a big step in the production of green energy. [3]

Forrest's team instead developed a multistep peel-off patterning method that could still make micron-scale connections. Thin pieces of patterned plastic were set down between the organic and metal layers, which were then peeled off to create extremely fine electrical interconnections between the cells.

Technologies that can make the solar cells even more transparent, for use in residence, can also be made using the newly developed technique. "The research we are doing is derisking the technology so that manufacturers can make the investments needed to enter large-scale production," Forrest said. [4]

References:

1. https://www.sinceindependence.com/tech/scientists-introduce-transparent-solar-panels-that-can-be-used-as-windows
2. https://m.thelocalreport.in/scientists-develop-transparent-solar-panels-that-can-be-used-as-windows/
3. https://digitnews.in/scientists-have-developed-transparent-solar-panels-can-be-used-like-windows-in-the-house/
4. https://gadgets360.com/science/news/electricity-from-your-windows-scientists-develop-method-to-make-transparent-solar-panels-easier-to-make-3176747

Cite this article:

Thanusri swetha J (2022), Scientists Develop Transparent Solar Panels that can be used as Windows, Anatechmaz, pp.261