As Taiwan accelerates its green energy agenda, Taiwan Perovskite Research and Industry Association Chairman Lai-Ju Chen highlights perovskite cells as the technology set to transform renewable energy. Chen sees perovskite, a third-generation solar technology, following the path of display technology advancements that continually expand applications despite reaching physical limits. With silicon-based solar cells now approaching efficiency barriers, perovskite offers a promising solution, combining high efficiency with lower costs.
"Each phase of display technology was marked by overcoming physical limits, which enabled new applications and markets," Chen explained. He draws parallels with solar technology, noting that as it maximizes silicon's potential, new innovations are crucial. Since its discovery in 2009, perovskite's rapid advancements are positioning it as the material of choice for high-efficiency, low-cost solar energy solutions, essential for Taiwan's green ambitions.
Perovskite's flexibility is its strength: it can power traditional solar plants and unlock applications beyond conventional renewables. Chen envisions its use in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), vehicle-integrated photovoltaic systems (VIPV), and agricultural applications. With energy-harvesting windows and walls, perovskite could transform urban buildings into self-sustaining structures. For rural and off-grid communities, its cost-effectiveness and ease of deployment could prove invaluable.
Perovskite production is expanding as manufacturers overcome material stability challenges and improve infrastructure. Chen outlines three development phases. The initial phase (2010-2020) focused on laboratory-based efficiency improvements. From 2020 to 2030, production is scaling up for broader applications, particularly in construction, automotive, and agriculture. According to Chen, 2020 marked the beginning of commercial perovskite adoption, and applications are poised to surge, especially in green building and vehicle integration.
Entering 2030, perovskite technology is expected to become essential for high-end applications across smart cities, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and beyond. Its efficiency and versatility make it particularly suitable for advanced applications, where it could power low-energy IoT devices, create efficient urban infrastructure, and even support aerospace developments.
As governments and companies accelerate carbon reduction efforts, perovskite's low production cost and adaptable nature align with global carbon neutrality goals. Taiwan, a major player in green technology, stands to gain significantly from perovskite's development, supporting its own energy security while potentially leading global advancements.
Chen sees perovskite evolving into a critical component of Taiwan's future energy strategy. As production scales to include larger substrates and more flexible applications, it promises to lower energy costs and ensure a resilient renewable energy supply. "Perovskite's trajectory mirrors display technology's breakthroughs, where each advancement not only meets demand but creates entirely new opportunities," Chen concluded, positioning Taiwan's perovskite innovation as essential to its green future.
