The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay announced a major advancement in solar technology, marking a step forward in reducing the cost of solar electricity in India. Working in partnership with ART-PV India Pvt Ltd and with support from the Maharashtra government, the institute has developed high-efficiency tandem solar cells with a reported power conversion efficiency (PCE) of approximately 30%—a significant leap from the industry standard of around 20%.
Tandem Technology: Higher Efficiency, Broader Solar Spectrum
The newly developed solar cells use a tandem structure—a design that stacks multiple photovoltaic materials in thin layers. This configuration enables the cells to capture a wider range of the solar spectrum, significantly boosting energy conversion without greatly increasing material costs.
According to IIT Bombay, the enhanced efficiency could bring down the cost of solar electricity to nearly ₹1 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), potentially making it one of the most cost-effective energy sources in India.
Commercialisation Timeline and State Government Support
IIT Bombay researchers aim to commercially scale the technology by 2027, pending successful testing and integration into real-world applications. The Maharashtra government has already shown keen interest, with Mahagenco, the state-run power generation company, tasked with evaluating the feasibility of deploying the modules in upcoming projects. Officials note that this innovation could also support India’s broader goal of reducing reliance on imported components, particularly from China.
A Game-Changer for India’s Solar Sector
If the thirty percent efficiency benchmark is maintained in field conditions, the technology could reshape the economics of solar energy. More efficient panels mean reduced land and infrastructure requirements for the same power output—an important advantage in densely populated or space-limited areas.
While the potential is enormous, researchers caution that several challenges remain, particularly around scalability, durability, and long-term performance in varied environmental conditions. As reported by apacnewsnetwork.com, nevertheless, this development marks a significant milestone in India’s push towards energy security and climate resilience.
