In a significant stride towards making perovskite solar cells (PSCs) a viable power source for indoor internet of things (IoT) devices, researchers have unveiled a trio of cost-reduction strategies that could revolutionize the energy sector. The study, led by Kanokwan Choodam from the School of Materials Science and Innovation at Mahidol University in Thailand, was recently published in the journal ‘Small Science’, which translates to ‘Small Science’ in English.
The research focuses on three key strategies to slash the costs of PSCs, making them an attractive option for powering IoT devices indoors. The first strategy involves using a dual perovskite absorber layer, which replaces both the absorber and hole transport layers. This innovation not only improves charge transport but also enhances the overall stability of the device. “The dual absorber layer is a game-changer,” says Choodam. “It simplifies the device architecture and boosts performance, making PSCs more competitive in the market.”
The second strategy employs spray-coating for perovskite deposition under ambient conditions, with relative humidity ranging from 45% to 65%. This method minimizes solution waste, making large-scale production more feasible and cost-effective. “Spray-coating is a simple, scalable technique that can be easily integrated into existing manufacturing processes,” explains Choodam. “It’s a practical solution for reducing costs without compromising performance.”
The third strategy involves replacing metal electrodes with carbon electrodes, which significantly cuts material costs. The proposed carbon-based device architecture boasts the lowest material cost of $11.98 per square meter and a modified levelized cost of electricity for indoor light (m-LCOE-i) of 1.54 cents per watt-hour. This outperforms traditional designs, enhancing the commercial viability of PSCs.
To demonstrate the practicality of their innovations, the researchers connected PSCs to IoT devices and powered them for over a month under typical laboratory lighting conditions (300–400 lux) at 40%–65% relative humidity. The results were promising, showcasing the potential of PSCs as a reliable power source for indoor IoT applications.
The study published in ‘Small Science’ not only highlights the technical advancements in PSC technology but also underscores the commercial impacts for the energy sector. By addressing the cost barriers, this research paves the way for wider adoption of PSCs in indoor photovoltaics, potentially transforming the energy landscape for IoT devices.
As the demand for sustainable and efficient energy solutions grows, innovations like these are crucial. The research led by Choodam and her team offers a glimpse into the future of PSCs, where cost-effective, high-performance solar cells could power a myriad of indoor applications. The findings not only shape future developments in the field but also inspire further research and investment in this promising technology.