New CSIRO facility accelerates Printed solar cell commercialization

With its advanced solar printing facility, CSIRO can produce 14,000 flexible solar cells daily. (Image Source: CSIRO)

 The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia’s national science agency, launched a $6.8 million Printed Photovoltaic Facility in Clayton, Victoria. This facility aims to transition flexible solar technology from research to real-world applications across multiple sectors. The facility produces lightweight solar cells printed on plastic films rather than conventional silicon panels. Using perovskite materials, these solar cells are manufactured through an automated process that integrates printing and laminating in a single, continuous operation, minimizing both costs and initial setup investments. CSIRO’s Renewable Energy Systems Group notes that these printed cells suit sectors needing portable, adaptable energy solutions, including urban development, defense, mining, and disaster relief. The facility can produce up to 14,000 test cells daily, enabling precise performance adjustments. This project is funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency through the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics.