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UNSW improved CZTS solar cells from 11.4% to 13.2% efficiency, leveraging hydrogen annealing for better photovoltaic results. Image Source: UNSW
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) researchers have achieved a record 13.2% efficiency for hydrogen-enhanced high bandgap kesterite (CZTS) solar cells. This milestone surpasses the previous efficiency record of 11.4%, a significant advancement for CZTS technology. CZTS is synthesized from abundant and non-toxic elements like copper, zinc, tin, and sulfur and provides a cost-effective alternative to silicon. Researchers addressed efficiency limitations by annealing CZTS devices in a hydrogen-containing atmosphere, significantly reducing production defects. The team aims to reach 15% efficiency within a year, with commercialization anticipated by 2030. CZTS has potential for tandem solar cells, pairing with silicon to boost efficiency, while UNSW is also exploring perovskite as another tandem material despite its stability challenges.