Optical advances offer boost to next-generation solar module designs

Optical advances offer boost to next-generation solar module designs
by Robert Schreiber
Berlin, Germany (SPX) Mar 30, 2025

In 2023, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems accounted for over 5 percent of global electricity output, with installed capacity doubling roughly every two to three years. Optical technologies are now emerging as key enablers to further enhance module efficiency and enable new applications, including aesthetically tailored solar panels for building facades. A new expert-driven report, coordinated by Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) scientists Prof. Christiane Becker and Dr. Klaus Jager, offers a detailed analysis of the most promising innovations in this area.

Solar photovoltaics have become one of the most affordable sources of electricity worldwide. As of November 2024, global PV installations surpassed two terawatts, underscoring the rapid pace of expansion and cost decline.

Contributions from 22 leading research institutions

"At a recent workshop, we discussed how the optics community can contribute to the further growth of photovoltaics," said Prof. Christiane Becker, who leads the Solar Energy Optics Department at HZB. Along with Dr. Klaus Jager, she brought together a team of 27 experts from 22 institutions across nine countries to produce a wide-ranging review of emerging PV and optical technologies.

Breakthrough optical concepts

Beginning with a comprehensive look at current terawatt-scale PV deployment, the report identifies critical areas where optical strategies can make significant contributions. "We have also identified a number of optical concepts that are currently only on the threshold of economic viability, but which hold the most promise for advancing PV technology," said Becker. Key areas include multi-junction solar cells, which offer the highest efficiencies among all PV technologies and could help reduce the levelized cost of energy.

Sustainability and aesthetics

The review also emphasizes the importance of environmentally responsible manufacturing and the reduced use of scarce materials through eco-design approaches. Another highlighted innovation is the development of colored PV modules suitable for integration into building architecture. "Especially in cities, we need to use facades and other surfaces too for solar energy conversion, and of course, it does matter how the PV modules look. Such innovative solar modules allow sophisticated aesthetic solutions," said Becker.

Becker and Jager believe the review will serve not only as a valuable resource for researchers but also for funding bodies and policy strategists seeking to accelerate the deployment of advanced solar technologies.

Research Report:Optics for Terawatt-Scale Photovoltaics: Review and Perspectives