Emerging innovations in solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies: The perovskite solar cells and more

Solar energy is a renewable and sustainable power source that reduces dependence on fossil fuels, helping to mitigate climate change. It lowers greenhouse gas emissions and provides an eco-friendly solution for meeting global energy demands. This review comprehensively overviews conventional and emerging light-absorbing materials in solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. It begins by detailing traditional materials such as silicon (monocrystalline and amorphous), cadmium telluride (CdTe), cadmium sulfide (CdS), and thin-film technologies, highlighting their roles in current solar energy production. The review then transitions to explore the innovations in solar PV technologies, focusing on perovskite solar cells (PSCs), poised to revolutionize the field due to their high efficiency and low manufacturing costs. Other advanced materials discussed include organic photovoltaics (OPVs), quantum dot solar cells (QDSCs), dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), and tandem solar cells (TSCs), with in-depth analysis of their chemical compositions, structural designs, functional mechanisms, fabrication processes, and the advantages and limitations of each technology. Environmental impacts, degradation rates, and future research directions are also critically examined. The review further explores the evolution of solar panel configurations, comparing conventional monofacial panels with innovative bifacial panels and solar window technologies. By synthesizing current and emerging trends, this review offers valuable insights into the future trajectory of solar PV systems, emphasizing the potential for improved efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability in solar energy technologies.