Chinese researchers have achieved a significant milestone in flexible solar cell technology, announcing a record 24.6% efficiency for perovskite-CIGS tandem solar cells. This breakthrough, led by Professor Jichun Ye's team, addresses critical durability challenges previously hindering the widespread adoption of flexible photovoltaic solutions, signaling a major advancement for the lightweight and adaptable solar market.

Perovskite, a crystalline material, has rapidly emerged as a frontrunner in solar cell innovation due to its exceptional light absorption capabilities and cost-effective production. While highly efficient in converting a broad spectrum of light into electricity, its long-term stability on flexible substrates has remained a persistent hurdle. CIGS (Copper Indium Gallium Selenide) complements perovskite by excelling in the infrared range, making the combination in a tandem cell architecture highly effective for maximizing solar energy capture across the full spectrum.

The core of this innovation lies in the team's novel dissolution-adsorption strategy. This method employs two distinct solvents to meticulously optimize the adhesion and crystallinity of the perovskite layer on the inherently rough surface of CIGS. This technique not only facilitates superior material integration but also significantly enhances the overall performance and robustness of the flexible cell. The resulting 0.42-square-inch flexible tandem solar cell demonstrated an impressive 24.6% power conversion efficiency, a new record for this class of device.

Crucially, the cells exhibited exceptional durability, maintaining over 90% of their initial performance even after 3,000 folding cycles and 320 hours of continuous operation. This level of mechanical and operational stability is a critical factor for commercial viability, distinguishing this research from previous attempts. The ability of these cells to withstand significant mechanical stress while retaining high efficiency positions them as a strong contender for diverse applications.

This successful development represents a pivotal leap for the renewable energy sector. The inherent flexibility, high efficiency, and demonstrated durability of these tandem solar cells open new avenues for solar energy deployment, from building-integrated photovoltaics and portable electronic devices to lightweight solutions for electric vehicles and aerospace. This advancement could accelerate the global transition away from fossil fuels by providing more adaptable and economically viable solar solutions, fundamentally reshaping the landscape of sustainable energy generation.