Kaneka Plans Perovskite Tandem Solar Cell Product Release by FY2028: Leveraging NEDO Green Innovation Fund for BIPV Rooftop Tile Module Demonstration

Kaneka Japan

Overview

Kaneka announced its plan to release perovskite solar cell products by fiscal year 2028, positioning perovskite technology as a key theme in its new ‘Three-Year Initiatives 2026’ medium-term management plan. Through a NEDO Green Innovation Fund project, the company is pursuing both high efficiency and long-term reliability in tandem structures. Notably, a demonstration project for roof-tile integrated modules of tandem perovskite solar cells for residential use is underway, potentially revolutionizing Japan’s Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) market.

In Depth

Key Findings

Kaneka has announced its strategic focus on the development of perovskite solar cell technology, a next-generation photovoltaic solution, within its new medium-term management plan, ‘Three-Year Initiatives 2026,’ with a target product release by fiscal year 2028. The company is leveraging the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)’s Green Innovation Fund project to address the critical challenges of achieving both high efficiency and long-term reliability in tandem structures. A particularly notable initiative is the demonstration project for roof-tile integrated modules of tandem perovskite solar cells for residential use, aiming to integrate photovoltaics seamlessly with building materials and bring new value to Japan’s energy landscape.

Technical Details

Kaneka’s perovskite solar cells are being developed by integrating the company’s long-standing expertise in organic thin-film technology with advanced perovskite materials science. The tandem structure involves stacking perovskite layers with other solar cells (e.g., silicon) to efficiently absorb different wavelengths of light, achieving higher power conversion efficiencies than single-junction cells. The NEDO project specifically targets a combination of high efficiency exceeding 20% and long-term reliability of over 20 years. Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) modules, which integrate directly into roofing tiles, are expected to see significant adoption in urban areas and residential markets as they enable solar power generation without compromising architectural aesthetics. Kaneka is focusing on technological development to achieve lightweight, flexible, and highly design-compatible modules that are easy to install on existing buildings.

Background & Context

Japan needs to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy to improve its energy self-sufficiency and achieve its 2050 carbon neutrality goal. Perovskite solar cells are considered an indispensable technology for meeting these targets due to their high potential. Kaneka has a track record in developing thin-film solar cells, such as amorphous silicon, and aims to leverage this experience in perovskite technology to establish a market advantage. Government support through the Green Innovation Fund provides an incentive for companies to invest in high-risk new technology development, fostering overall technological innovation in Japan. The BIPV market, in particular, is expected to see substantial growth with the promotion of Zero Energy Buildings (ZEB) and Zero Energy Homes (ZEH).

Strategic Significance & Outlook

Kaneka’s plan to release perovskite tandem solar cell products by fiscal year 2028 represents a significant step towards transforming its business structure and establishing leadership in Japan’s renewable energy market. The success of the residential roof-tile integrated module demonstration project could set a new standard in the BIPV market and significantly impact the construction industry. In the future, these technologies are expected to expand their application scope to commercial and public facilities, and even the mobility sector. This strategy by Kaneka is anticipated to accelerate the spread of solar power and contribute to the realization of a sustainable society, while also enhancing the company’s corporate value.