Scaling Solar Cell to Module Conversion for High Efficiency Perovskite Tandems
Swift Solar Inc.
Recipient
San Carlos, CA
Recipient Location
13th
Senate District
21st
Assembly District
Active
Project Status
Project Update
This project kicked off in October 2024. Work to date has focused on initiating interactions with suppliers of module assembly equipment, with focus on the equipment and processes that are compatible with the perovskite PV cell module assembly requirements.
The Issue
Current silicon single junction technology will reach its practical commercial efficiency ceiling of ~25% within the next 5-10 years. This limited efficiency leads to larger footprints for PV applications, or alternatively, lower power output. There is a need for more efficient and affordable PV that can address this shortcoming and can be more widely deployed in various applications.
Project Innovation
This project will advance high-efficiency perovskite tandem PV technology from pilot-scale prototyping to low-rate initial production (LRIP).
Swift Solar will implement a cell-to-module conversion line that closes the gap to LRIP by leveraging the tandem cell prototyping line developed in our BRIDGE project. Swift Solar will scale up back-end manufacturing processes for converting cells into strings and modules, using equipment suitable for high rate production, then carry out application-specific field testing. The products will be high-efficiency PV modules for both established and specialized applications. This work will be pivotal in transitioning from lab-built prototypes to LRIP, and will mark an important de-risking leap toward GW-scale manufacturing of next-generation solar technology.
Project Goals
Advance high-efficiency perovskite tandem PV technology from pilot-scale prototyping to low-rate initial production (LRIP)
Project Benefits
This Agreement will result in the ratepayer benefit of lower costs by readying perovskite tandem solar cell technology for scale-up and deployment. High-efficiency tandems will increase California rooftop and utility-scale solar energy production by 25+%, at an estimated cost savings per kWh of 10–30+% (depending on technology generation and installation methods).
The Recipient projects a 10% lower residential LCOE for perovskite-silicon tandems than baseline c-Si PV in 2030 without accounting for potential cost savings from new deployment strategies.
Affordability
Affordability
Scaling production will reduce the cost of perovskite tandem cells. Additionally, higher efficiency cells can increase energy production.
Consumer Appeal
Consumer Appeal
EV drivers will also benefit from solar-integrated EVs via cost savings, increased convenience, and longer battery lifetime. Reducing EV charging requirements with onboard solar should help drive more equitable EV adoption.
Key Project Members
Bijan Moslehi
VP, Manufacturing & Supply Chain
Swift Solar
Joel Jean
CEO
Swift Solar
Match Partners
Swift Solar Inc.
