Oxford PV and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE have merged two advanced photovoltaic technologies into a single module. The partnership combines Oxford PV's perovskite-silicon tandem cells with Fraunhofer ISE's Matrix Shingle interconnection technique. This integration aims to boost efficiency and reliability beyond what either technology could achieve alone.
Perovskite-silicon tandem cells have demonstrated record conversion efficiencies in lab settings, surpassing 30%. The Matrix Shingle method reduces resistive losses and improves shading tolerance by connecting small cell segments in a shingled pattern. The collaboration seeks to translate these gains into a manufacturable, commercial product.
Oxford PV, a UK-based company, has been scaling perovskite-silicon cell production at its Brandenburg, Germany facility. Fraunhofer ISE brings decades of module interconnection expertise. The partners have not disclosed specific efficiency targets or a timeline for commercial availability.
This development could accelerate the adoption of high-efficiency solar technology. Tandem cells offer a path to exceed the practical limits of conventional silicon photovoltaics. However, challenges remain in perovskite stability, long-term durability, and cost-effective mass production.
A counter argument is that perovskite-silicon tandems have faced durability and scaling hurdles that have delayed previous commercial rollouts. Skeptics question whether the Matrix Shingle approach can overcome these issues at scale.