New version of the best search cell performance chart.
Photo: NREL
From PV World Magazine
NREL has released a new version of its best research cell efficiency chart. The tool highlights the highest proven conversion efficiency of research cells for a range of photovoltaic technologies.
In the new interactive version, users can mine decades of research data and compare custom maps focused on specific technologies or time periods, NREL said in a statement. Now they can find data on cell current, output voltage and duty cycle, as well as efficiency. Availability of this information depends on information in NREL records.
The highest efficiency of the plotted search cell is 47.1% for the cell with four transitions. Its interactive nature allows users to visualize the recent leap in conversion efficiency of new technologies such as perovskite solar cells. This is in contrast to the steady increase in efficiency of silicon solar cells since the 1980s.
"The NREL performance chart is probably the most comprehensive presentation chart you'll find at the annual PV conference and similar conferences," said Sarah Kurtz, NREL senior research scientist. But it has become so full that it is difficult to see the data. With the new interactive chart, researchers will still be able to use the data, but present it in a way that better engages their conversations.”
The efficiency of the cells is measured at independent test centers, including NREL, before they are given a place on the table. All images are also available for download.
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