review · Energy Conversion and Management X
Photovoltaic technology continues to evolve beyond established crystalline silicon and thin-film cells through new materials and architectures. Emerging options such as perovskite, multi-junction, and organic solar cells show significant potential for higher energy conversion efficiency, though perovskites still require solutions for stability hurdles. Advanced designs, including tandem cells, quantum dot configurations, bifacial modules, flexible panels, and transparent cells, broaden the practical environments where solar harvesting can occur. Alongside cell innovations, systems are increasingly integrated into smart grids, agrivoltaics, and building management networks. Manufacturing methods such as silicon wafer processing and thin-film deposition remain central to ongoing development. Continued progress relies on addressing persistent constraints surrounding device stability, recycling, sustainability, and the cost-effective scaling of production to support decarbonisation efforts worldwide.
Transitioning to low-carbon energy systems requires solar technologies that generate more electricity at lower costs across diverse environments. Clarifying the status of next-generation materials and system designs helps highlight how solar power can expand beyond traditional rooftops and solar farms into agriculture, modern buildings, and integrated smart electrical grids.
The review encompasses technologies across different readiness stages, from commercial silicon and thin-film systems to developmental perovskite, organic, and quantum dot devices. These technologies can benefit solar manufacturers, power grid operators, and agricultural or building developers. Widespread commercial adoption for emerging variants depends on overcoming stability limits, recycling challenges, and establishing cost-effective thin-film deposition and manufacturing processes.
AI-generated from the published abstract. Always read the original work before citing.
• PV technology is crucial for renewable energy and climate change mitigation. • Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs) offer efficiency gains but face stability challenges. • Tandem and Quantum Dot Solar Cells enhance spectral absorption and efficiency. • Smart grid integration and agrivoltaics expand PV applications. • Future research focuses on stability and cost-effective production. Photovoltaic (PV) technology has become a cornerstone in the global transition to renewable energy. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in PV technology and presents forward-looking insights into future trends. Beginning with a historical overview and the fundamental principles of photovoltaic conversion, the paper traces the evolution of commercial PV cells, such as crystalline silicon and thin-film technologies. Special attention is given to emerging materials, including perovskite, multi-junction, and organic photovoltaic cells, which hold significant promise for boosting solar energy conversion efficiency. The paper also explores cutting-edge innovations in PV device architectures, such as tandem cells, quantum dot cells, bifacial panels, flexible PV, and transparent solar cells, highlighting their potential in diverse applications. Key manufacturing processes and efficiency enhancement techniques, including silicon wafer production and thin-film deposition, are thoroughly examined. The review further explores the integration of PV systems into smart grids and building management systems, supported by real-world case studies. Economic and environmental analyses underscore the pivotal role of PV technology in reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable energy solutions. Finally, the review addresses pressing challenges, such as efficiency constraints, sustainability issues, and recycling concerns, while proposing directions for future research aimed at overcoming these hurdles and driving continued innovation in the field.
This page summarises published work. The authoritative version sits with the publisher.
DOI: 10.1016/j.ecmx.2025.100952
Is something wrong with this record? Report it or request removal.
Discussion
Have you built on this work, tried to replicate it, or seen it applied in practice? Share what you know. Verified researchers and MARATTO™ domain experts can open a discussion, and any member can reply. Contributions are reviewed before they appear.
No discussion yet. Open the first thread.
New to MARATTO™? Create a free account.
