LONGi, a prominent figure in solar technology, has recently set a new world record in solar cell efficiency. Their latest crystalline silicon-perovskite (CSP) tandem cells have achieved an impressive 33.9 per cent efficiency, a feat certified by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory. This marks a significant leap forward in the field of solar cell technology.
The former record of 33.7 per cent solar cell efficiency was held by the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) since May of the same year. LONGi's breakthrough is especially noteworthy as it's the first instance of CSP tandem cells exceeding the theoretical maximum efficiency of 33.7 per cent for single-junction solar cells, known as the Shockley-Queisser (S-Q) limit. This limit, initially estimated at 30 per cent in 1961 by William Shockley and Hans-Joachim Queisser, represents a benchmark in solar cell efficiency.
Tandem solar cells, such as those developed by LONGi, are inherently more complex and potentially more expensive than single-junction cells. Despite this, they offer greater efficiency by harnessing a broader spectrum of solar light, presenting a valuable avenue for future solar energy advancements.
LONGi's recent achievement not only demonstrates their innovative prowess in solar technology but also cements their status as a leader in the industry. In November 2022, LONGi set another efficiency record with its silicon heterojunction cells at 26.81 per cent. These achievements position LONGi as a front-runner in cell efficiency, marking the first time since 2015 that a Chinese company has held the record for CSP cell efficiency.
Zhenguo Li, LONGi's founder and president, emphasized the importance of this breakthrough. He pointed out that while the efficiency of crystalline silicon single-junction cells, which currently dominate the market, is nearing its theoretical limit of 29.4 per cent, crystalline silicon-perovskite tandem cells, like LONGi's, have a much higher theoretical efficiency limit of 43 per cent. This suggests significant room for future improvements in solar cell technology.
In Australia, LONGi is recognized as a key player, especially in the residential solar panel market. The company is celebrated for offering valuable and well-supported panels. LONGi solar panels have been highly rated by Australian consumers, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 from 969 ratings on SolarQuotes.
The advancements made by LONGi signify a significant step forward in solar technology and highlight the continuous potential for innovation in renewable energy, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable energy solutions in the future.
