Tandem PV Secures $7.7M DOE Grant to Accelerate US Commercialization of 29.7% Efficient Perovskite-Silicon Tandem Solar Cells

August 30, 2026

PV Tech USA

Overview

Tandem PV, a California-based startup, has been awarded a $7.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s ARPA-E SCALEUP Ready program. This funding will expedite the commercial-scale production and domestic manufacturing of their high-efficiency perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell technology, which has achieved 29.7% conversion efficiency in internal testing. The company, already operating a 40MW commercial demonstration facility, also announced nearly $1 billion in letters of intent for uncertified panels, signaling strong market confidence.

In Depth

Key Findings

Tandem PV has successfully secured a $7.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) ARPA-E SCALEUP Ready program. This substantial funding is specifically earmarked to accelerate the commercial-scale production and bolster domestic manufacturing capabilities for their advanced perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell technology. The company has reported achieving an impressive 29.7% conversion efficiency in internal tests, marking a significant step forward in solar energy performance.

Technical / Clinical Details

The perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell technology developed by Tandem PV integrates a thin perovskite layer atop conventional silicon solar cells. This innovative architecture enables the cell to absorb a broader spectrum of sunlight more efficiently, leading to a substantial increase in overall conversion efficiency compared to single-junction cells. Tandem PV is already operating a 40MW commercial demonstration facility, underscoring its readiness for scaled production. The DOE grant will be crucial for transitioning from pilot-scale production to full commercial manufacturing. Furthermore, the company has announced that it holds approximately $1 billion in letters of intent for uncertified panels, which points to robust market demand and investor confidence in their technology’s potential.

Background & Context

As the global push for renewable energy intensifies, the quest for higher efficiency and lower cost in solar photovoltaic (PV) technology remains paramount. Perovskite solar cells have emerged as a frontrunner in next-generation PV due to their high power conversion efficiencies and potential for low-cost manufacturing processes. Tandem configurations, which combine perovskites with established silicon technology, are particularly promising as they leverage existing infrastructure while dramatically boosting performance. The U.S. government, through initiatives like the DOE’s ARPA-E program, is actively investing in domestic clean energy manufacturing to enhance national energy independence and competitiveness in the global clean energy market.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

This grant is a pivotal moment for Tandem PV, enabling them to scale up production and strengthen their position in the rapidly expanding U.S. solar market. The successful commercialization of high-efficiency perovskite-silicon tandem cells could lead to more affordable and sustainable solar energy solutions, contributing significantly to reduced energy costs and accelerated climate change mitigation efforts. As Tandem PV’s technology gains broader adoption, it is expected to spur further innovation across the solar industry and play a crucial role in driving the global energy transition.

Source: https://www.pv-tech.org/tandem-pv-doe-grant-commercialisation-perovskite/

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