It was reported that a team of scientists from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan has created perovskite solar cells (PSCs) that effectively convert indoor lighting into electrical power. The scientists built on previous research, which shows PSCs can achieve efficiency rates comparable to silicon solar cells while working.
The team tested their solar cells, showing promising results. Under one standard sun illumination (roughly 12,000 lux), the team’s perovskite cells achieved a PCE of 12.7%. This is relatively low compared to the 26% PCE of some of the highest performing silicon solar cells. However, under a much lower 2,000 lux, the PSCs displayed an impressive PCE of 38.7%. 2,000 lux is roughly the brightness level found in a standard office space.
To develop their solar cell, the researchers altered the bandgap of the composition of their perovskite. The team adjusted the ratios of the molecules in solutions used to make the perovskite layers of the solar cells. By doing this, they achieved a bandgap that allows their solar cells to absorb indoor light. This particular bandgap is not possible in silicon solar cells.
“The indoor efficiency of PSCs is higher, meaning that the photovoltaic products can be more suitable for versatile user scenarios, including cloudy outdoor, indoor, and other dim-light environments,” said author Fang-Chung Chen.
According to the team, their PSCs could be used to charge small devices in areas that don’t have access to sunlight.
