Solar cell record record of external quantum efficiency has reached 114%

Scientists finally found ways to make solar cells generate more electricity than they absorb, and this discovery has become a key point for the success of solar energy in replacing fossil fuels. However, MIT stressed that the political conflict between China and the United States may actually make the market price of photovoltaic power generation technology too expensive. Therefore, solar energy wants to become an affordable energy in the world is still out of reach for a short time.

Last week, PhysOrg reported on this scientific breakthrough made by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). According to the report, equipment researchers eventually developed a new type of solar cell whose "photo-generated multi-carrier generation rate" exceeded 100%. Basically, the ratio of the amount of energy flowing out of the external circuit of the solar cell to the amount of energy flowing in can yield the MEG generation rate.

The biggest problem with solar energy so far is that solar cells do not output as much light as they absorb (light particles). However, due to the creative application of zinc oxide, lead selenide and a little gold, the new solar cell has achieved an external quantum efficiency of about 114%.

However, MIT noted that even if solar energy becomes cheap enough and suitable for large-scale production, trade tariffs may also increase its technical costs. In fact, such things have already happened. Chinese solar cell and collector assembly manufacturers are dumping their products at unfairly low prices, while the U.S. government begins to use political coercive measures to fight back.

So what does this mean for the average person who wants to use alternative energy sources? If the global PV companies can't bring benefits to them and they can't afford solar cells, these people may spend less money on electricity. And gas. If so, people can officially stop saving for the solar roof they dreamed of.