Researchers Achieve Record-Breaking Efficiency in Perovskite-Silicon Solar Cells
Researchers from KAUST and Fraunhofer ISE have achieved a record-breaking 33.1% efficiency in perovskite–silicon tandem solar cells, marking a major advance in photovoltaic technology announced on September 10, 2025.
A team of scientists from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia and Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) has set a new world record for perovskite–silicon tandem solar cell efficiency, reaching 33.1%. The breakthrough, announced on September 10, 2025, represents a significant leap forward in the quest for more efficient and cost-effective solar energy solutions.
The research group, which also included collaborators from the University of Freiburg, achieved this milestone by developing a novel surface treatment for the perovskite layer using 1,3-diaminopropane dihydroiodide (PDAI). This single-molecule passivation technique addresses longstanding challenges in depositing perovskite films onto the textured surfaces of silicon cells, a necessary step for maximizing light absorption and overall device performance.
According to Dr. Oussama Er-Raji, lead author and scientist at Fraunhofer ISE, "So far, effective passivation has not been fully harnessed on textured perovskite silicon tandem solar cells, with prior success largely confined to flat-front architectures. But we have now managed excellent passivation by depositing 1,3-diaminopropane dihydroiodide on the uneven perovskite surface." The treatment not only improved conductivity and the fill factor but also enhanced the bulk properties of the perovskite layer, resulting in better charge transport and device stability.
Scientific and Industrial Impact
The 33.1% efficiency mark surpasses previous records and is seen as a pivotal step toward the commercial viability of tandem solar cells. Professor Stefaan De Wolf of KAUST emphasized that this achievement "provides a solid foundation for all future research in this area," enabling scientists to further optimize the conversion of sunlight into electricity. Professor Stefan Glunz of the University of Freiburg and Fraunhofer ISE added that the success of surface passivation in this context mirrors the key advances that propelled silicon solar cells to industrial dominance, suggesting similar benefits for the next generation of photovoltaic technology.
Implications for Renewable Energy Transition
The enhanced efficiency and stability of these tandem cells could accelerate the adoption of solar power worldwide, particularly in regions like Saudi Arabia that are investing heavily in renewable energy. The researchers note that the new method could reduce production costs and help nations save billions as they transition away from fossil fuels. The breakthrough is expected to influence both academic research and industrial manufacturing, potentially reshaping the global solar market in the coming years.
The announcement has been widely covered by local and international media, with experts highlighting the potential for this technology to set new standards in solar energy conversion and deployment.