High efficiency multi-crystalline solar cells
![](https://deshpande.mit.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Project-default-aspect-ratio-580-360-40-580x360-c-default.jpg)
Light trapping and metallization
Well over half of the current $10B photovoltaic (PV) market is based on multi-crystalline silicon wafers that operate at an approximate 16% conversion efficiency. The best commercial silicon solar cells available today are 20% efficient, but are made from more expensive single crystal substrates. Current PV can compete with the high end of residential electricity rates without subsidy, however in order for grid-connected solar panels to compete in more of the electric power market; a substantial cost reduction is needed. This project will explore texturing the multi-crystalline wafer using novel approaches to light trapping and metallization, two of the performance limiting factors in multi-crystalline solar cell technologies. This method will improve the efficiency of multi-crystalline solar cells by up to 25% — with little added manufacturing cost. This improvement in efficiency could lower the cost per watt of solar energy, allowing it to become more competitive with grid electricity.
![](https://live-mit-deshpande.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/1366.png)
1366 Technologies
The technology from this project was spun out into a startup company, 1366 Technologies.