Ascent Solar Technologies, a leading developer and manufacturer of thin-film solar photovoltaic solutions, has recently announced a groundbreaking achievement in the efficiency of its proprietary Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) technology. Test results now indicate an impressive efficiency rating of 17.55%, marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance solar energy generation.

Driving the Progress:

In August, the dedicated team at Ascent embarked on an ambitious mission to optimize both the manufacturing processes and chemistry behind their CIGS technology. Their diligent work has paid off, resulting in a remarkable increase in efficiency. First, the team achieved a significant jump from 10.8% to 15.2%. This achievement was further enhanced by an additional increase to 15.5%. And now, their tireless dedication has brought forth a substantial efficiency rise to an impressive 17.55%.

Key Factors for Success:

The recent surge in efficiency can be attributed to two core factors. Firstly, the incorporation of rubidium fluoride into the chemistry has yielded remarkable results. Combined with meticulous improvements made to Ascent’s manufacturing process, this addition has proven instrumental in increasing the overall effectiveness of the CIGS technology. Consequently, the specific power in the space environment is set to elevate from 1,900 W/kg to an impressive 2,100 W/kg at AM0. This advancement signifies that the upgraded solar energy system can provide enhanced power output while maintaining its hallmark attributes of flexibility, resilience, and lightweight design.

Future Enhancements:

Ascent Solar Technologies remains committed to pushing boundaries and continuously improving the efficiency of their CIGS technology. Plans are underway to introduce Zn(O,S), a promising cadmium-free buffer layer, to the solar film, along with broader chemistry optimizations. By incorporating Zn(O,S) into the technology, Ascent aims to further boost both efficiency and specific power. This addition will expand light interaction in the blue spectrum and mitigate potential degradation through enhanced resistance after light exposure.

Ascent Solar Technologies’ exceptional achievement in reaching an efficiency rating of 17.55% with their CIGS technology is a testament to their unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in the solar industry. With ongoing research and development efforts, Ascent continues to elevate the standards for solar photovoltaic solutions. Their groundbreaking advancements signify a promising future for renewable energy generation, holding great potential for a cleaner and greener tomorrow.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this research report is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial or investment advice. The energy market is highly volatile, and readers should conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions.