2026-2027 Solar Research Funding Priorities: Driving 25%+ Efficiency with Perovskite Tandems and Scalable Manufacturing

September 13, 2026

Research Funding Portal/Blog Unknown

Overview

This article outlines key solar research funding priorities for 2026-2027, with a strong emphasis on achieving over 25% efficiency in commercial solar modules through advanced tandem solar cell designs, particularly perovskite/silicon heterojunctions. It also highlights the strategic focus on scalable and cost-effective manufacturing methods, such as thin-film deposition and roll-to-roll processes. The report stresses that collaborative partnerships are crucial for successful grant applications, fostering innovation and accelerating market adoption.

In Depth

Background

The global energy landscape is rapidly evolving, with an increasing demand for higher efficiency, lower cost, and more sustainable solar energy solutions. Research funding bodies are aligning their priorities to support breakthrough innovations that can meet these critical objectives, particularly as the industry pushes towards next-generation photovoltaic technologies.

Key Findings

For the 2026-2027 funding cycle, solar research initiatives will heavily prioritize projects aimed at achieving significant performance milestones. A primary focus is on developing commercial solar modules with power conversion efficiencies exceeding 25%. This ambitious target is expected to be met through the advancement of sophisticated tandem solar cell designs, with particular attention given to perovskite/silicon heterojunction architectures. These tandem cells are capable of capturing a broader spectrum of sunlight, thereby increasing overall efficiency.

Beyond efficiency, the funding priorities also underscore the importance of scalable and cost-effective manufacturing methods. Technologies such as thin-film deposition and roll-to-roll processes are highlighted as key areas for investment, as they enable high-throughput, low-cost production essential for widespread commercialization. Furthermore, the article explicitly states that collaborative partnerships—between academic institutions, industry players, and governmental research bodies—will be a critical factor for successful grant applications, recognizing that interdisciplinary cooperation is vital for accelerating research and development into practical applications.

Significance & Outlook

These funding priorities reflect a strategic push to solidify the next generation of solar technology, particularly perovskites, as a dominant force in renewable energy. By targeting high efficiencies and scalable manufacturing, the funding aims to bridge the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and industrial deployment. The emphasis on collaboration ensures that research efforts are well-integrated and geared towards real-world impact, ultimately leading to more powerful, affordable, and accessible solar energy solutions globally.

Source: https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AUZIYQE1GGemfJvJQK7GjvNe5G3puzBbBaVYDu4rGPiUwR1yfMlVEqJAGsRk8dUG9-5y0qDEP0NsEsXsoJ2nA7Wksh0woD_ZT5wWoevHTeM-fTwA615F3nbBOIL69dC-2JYvO2j8tDPjX_BeOZXhp5z8jamzZg==

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