Swiss researchers have recorded efficiency levels of 18.7% in a flexible solar panel, bringing it closer to its silicon counterparts.
The team at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology has announced development of the film that is almost on par with the rigid solar panels. The rise has been gradual over a number of years, since EMPA paired with FLISOM, a start-up company in 2004.
A report by DailyTech states that at present, both parties are working to commercialise the technology. It is thought that the cells could be used to replace traditional panels in solar windows, solar shingles or other solar installations.
Many of the details on the project have still yet to be released, but more is expected as it is developed.
Documents and links
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DailyTech report
Flexible Film Solar Cells Approach Efficiency of Hard Silicon Panels
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Subscribe to +Plastic Electronics magazine
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Organic solar cells push efficiency thresholds to 8.3%
European and US organic solar cell developers have recorded 8.3% efficiencies for prototype devices
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The Future of Flexible and Thin-Film PVs
Technology forecasts to 2019, published by IntertechPira
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