New Record Achieved for PV Cell Efficiency

Scientists at Spectrolab, a division of Hughes Electronics Corp., and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory have achieved a

new efficiency record for photovoltaic cells, converting 32.3% of the sun’s energy into electricity. The record was achieved with triple-junction gallium-indium-phosphide on gallium arsenide on germanium using a concentrating lens. They believe that they can achieve 40% efficiency with a four-junction cell. Spectrolab, which produces PV modules for space applications, has its eye on terrestrial applications with this multi-junction concentrator technology and is currently seeking industry partners. The cells have roughly double the efficiency of commercially produced PV modules, though this technology has yet to be scaled up into a power-generating system.