Next-Generation Tandem Solar Cells: PXP’s Perovskite-CIS Project Selected by NEDO

High-Performance & Flexible Tandem Solar Cell

Structure: A tandem cell combining a Perovskite top layer with a Chalcopyrite (CIS) bottom layer on a thin metal substrate, enhancing light absorption efficiency.

Key Features:

• High Efficiency

• Ultra-Lightweight

• Unbreakable

• Highly Flexible

Primary Applications:

• Road and Telecommunication Infrastructure

• Mobility and Transportation

• Industrial Roofs and Agri-Voltaics

Project Overview

PXP, based in Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, announced that its tandem solar cell project has been selected for funding by NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization) and the project has officially started. The solar modules are fabricated by stacking perovskite solar cells with CIS (chalcopyrite) solar cells, using lightweight film substrates to reduce overall weight.

The project falls under Research and Development Category I, titled "Next-Generation Solar Cell Technology Development," which is part of NEDO’s 2025 initiative for expanding solar power generation technology applications.

Objectives

NEDO’s project aims to contribute to carbon neutrality by 2050 by exploring diverse solar cell capabilities, developing next-generation solar technologies, and creating solar power systems suitable for different installation sites. PXP aims to enhance the conversion efficiency and durability of the perovskite-CIS tandem cells and study large-area modules for early practical deployment. The project is scheduled to run from FY2025 to FY2029.

Technology Features

The tandem solar cell combines:

• Perovskite cells, which efficiently convert shorter wavelengths (ultraviolet light).

• CIS cells (chalcopyrite), which efficiently convert longer wavelengths (infrared light).

Compared to conventional perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells, the new technology allows tunable wavelength absorption and offers a theoretically higher conversion efficiency.

Physical properties:

• Cell weight: 0.2 kg/m²

• Module weight: 0.7 kg/m²

• Thickness: 0.7 mm

These characteristics make the modules thin, lightweight, flexible, and resistant to breakage, enabling diverse applications.

Applications and Market Focus

PXP plans to target:

• Industrial and agricultural rooftops

• Mobile infrastructure

• Roads and telecommunication facilities

Production and Commercialization Plan

• Production facility launch: FY2026

• Initial production: chalcopyrite solar cells (as the bottom cell)

• Commercialization target: perovskite-CIS tandem solar modules by FY2028

The project represents a major step toward high-efficiency, lightweight, flexible solar modules for versatile applications in Japan and beyond.