India’s push for 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030 just got a big lift from IIT Roorkee. A team led by Prof. Soumitra Satapathi created silicon-perovskite tandem solar cells that hit a stunning 30% power conversion efficiency—beating the typical 24% from standard silicon panels.
For over 40 years, crystalline silicon solar cells have ruled the market, but they’re bumping up against their max potential. Plus, silicon’s heavy energy demands and India’s need to cut imports scream for homegrown solutions. Enter silicon-perovskite tandem tech: it pairs reliable silicon with flexible perovskite layers to deliver higher efficiency at lower costs, making it a top pick for next-gen solar power.
Prof. Satapathi, often called the “Solar Man of India” for his early breakthroughs like jamun-based affordable solar cells, has chased perovskite innovations for more than a decade. His group built these 4-terminal tandem cells with a wide-bandgap perovskite top layer—about 1.8 eV—that teams perfectly with the silicon base. The result? 30% efficiency now, with room to climb to 35%.
The professor boasts a stack of high-profile papers, patents, and awards. He’s a go-to expert on materials science and sustainability, and he loves sharing his insights as a speaker.
Now, the IIT Roorkee crew wants to take this to the big leagues. They’re scaling up to commercial G12 and G12R wafer sizes using slot-die coating, a smart way to make perovskite mini-modules. Expect large-area prototypes soon, targeting 32% efficiency on full-sized modules by next year. This could rocket India to the top of global tandem solar innovation.
To speed things from lab to market, the team started Perovskite Innovation Pvt. Ltd., a startup focused on silicon-perovskite tandem solar technology. It captures the essence of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India by cutting import reliance, boosting local manufacturing, and fueling green jobs.
Prof. Satapathi shared his excitement: “Our silicon-perovskite tandem solar cells could reshape India’s renewable energy scene. By topping global efficiency marks with homegrown tech, we’re not just making solar panels—we’re securing India’s energy independence.”
This isn’t just about adding more solar capacity anymore. It’s about owning the tech, exporting ideas, and leading on climate action. IIT Roorkee’s tandem solar breakthrough puts India on track for energy self-reliance and a starring role in clean energy worldwide.
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