Perovskite solar cells: The future of energy generation in space!

Perovskite solar cells: The future of energy generation in space!

Space plays a crucial role in life on Earth. It enables everyday life to run smoothly through GPS, weather and television satellites. However, these satellites rely on a reliable energy source to operate and are primarily powered by solar cells. Space travel and earth missions rely heavily on electricity supplies. However, space radiation poses a significant threat to solar cells by causing microscopic defects in the semiconductor lattice. Against this background, a junior group at the University of Potsdam is developing flexible solar cells made from the innovative material perovskite, which can repair itself.

The special thing about perovskite solar cells is that, after damage, lattice defects automatically “heal” using mobile ions in the flexible lattice. This novel property could revolutionize the use of solar cells in space and provide a stable source of energy for future missions. When developing this technology, the focus is not only on applications in space, but also on its efficiency on Earth. Perovskite solar cells already exceed the efficiency of traditional silicon solar cells and offer remarkable advantages: They are thinner, lighter and have a smaller carbon footprint.

The future of solar energy

The possibilities for using perovskite solar cells are promising. Solar-powered films could be rolled out in space to generate energy for astronauts on the International Space Station and for future cities on the Moon or Mars. This innovation could significantly reduce the weight and launch costs of space missions. Concepts are also being developed that enable energy to be transferred to Earth via microwaves, which further increases the potential of solar cells in space.

In parallel with developments in space, solar energy on Earth has grown significantly in recent years. According to a report by Utopia, solar energy has become the cheapest form of energy worldwide. Significant milestones were reached in Germany alone at the beginning of 2023. Exceeding the 100 GW mark, a new feed-in record of 45 GW on March 18th and over five million solar systems are points of great interest. However, the expansion of solar energy has not always come without setbacks. After a phase of stagnation between 2013 and 2018, triggered by funding cuts, expansion has picked up speed again under Federal Economics Minister Robert Habeck.

Technological advances and challenges

A significant decline in the cost of generating solar power – from 50 cents in 2000 to less than four cents today – has further stimulated the market. A significant share of 38% of German solar power comes from homes. What is particularly noteworthy is the continuous growth of balcony solar systems, which currently only contribute just under 1% of total electricity. Critics, however, warn of possible overproduction on sunny and windy days, which can lead to negative electricity prices.

The state-determined remuneration for operators of solar and wind systems caused costs of 18.5 billion euros in 2024. While high remunerations apply primarily to older systems, the need to expand electricity storage and the European power grid is recognized in order to efficiently manage growing solar power production. Germany remains a leading location for solar research, with the Fraunhofer Institute playing a central role. It is already clear that perovskite solar cells could usher in a new era in the history of solar energy because they are cost-effective and efficient.

In addition, research work on new applications for solar energy is ongoing. Innovative solutions are planned that integrate solar cells on streets, cycle paths and even in window panes. Given these sweeping developments, solar energy is on the cusp of new heights and challenges, both in space and on Earth, with the promise of sustainably improving global energy supplies.