Key Findings
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) has published a summary of its 2022 Peer Review on manufacturing and competitiveness. This review evaluates the strategic direction of photovoltaic technologies to meet U.S. clean energy goals. A key finding emphasized that SETO is funding projects that support both mature silicon PV technologies and emerging technologies like perovskite solar cells. For perovskite PV specifically, the focus is on identifying concrete opportunities to reduce technological risks and enable quicker scale-up and market deployment. SETO has set ambitious targets to further reduce solar electricity costs and expand domestic manufacturing capacity by 2025.
Technical Details
The peer review discussed in detail the bottlenecks in perovskite solar cell manufacturing processes and technological innovations required to overcome them. This includes the development of manufacturing techniques suitable for large-scale production, such as roll-to-roll printing and slot-die coating, as well as material cost reduction and long-term device reliability improvements. SETO provides funding for R&D to enhance manufacturing maturity, supporting the transition of laboratory-level results to factory-level production. The goal is for perovskite solar cell modules to become competitive with existing PV technologies in terms of performance, cost, and durability. Furthermore, strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity is planned to contribute to supply chain resilience and enhanced energy security.
Background & Context
The U.S. is strongly promoting the adoption of solar power to accelerate its transition to a clean energy economy and strengthen climate action. In this context, perovskite solar cells are seen as a potentially game-changing technology due to their high efficiency and potential for low-cost manufacturing. However, their commercialization requires establishing manufacturing processes and proving long-term reliability. SETO’s peer review indicates that the government recognizes these challenges and is seeking solutions through appropriate funding and policy support. Strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity will also lead to job creation and economic growth, which are crucial elements for maintaining U.S. technological leadership.
Strategic Significance & Outlook
SETO will further refine its perovskite solar cell R&D and manufacturing support programs based on the recommendations identified in the peer review. Future funding opportunities are likely to focus specifically on scalable manufacturing techniques, durability enhancement, and cost reduction. Progress towards the 2025 targets will demonstrate that perovskite solar cells can significantly contribute to the U.S. energy mix, ultimately playing an indispensable role in achieving the national goal of 100% clean electricity for the power sector by 2035. This strategic approach is expected to accelerate the market introduction of perovskite solar cells and drive the clean energy revolution.
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