Solar energy is the most abundant renewable energy source, and it plays an essential role in helping to reach the global carbon neutrality target. Flexible, lightweight, low-cost photovoltaic (PV) technology is necessary for the deployment of PV devices in dense cities like Hong Kong. However, traditional silicon solar cells do not meet the requirements because of technical flaws, such as thick and heavy volume, cumbersome fabrication processes, and extensive environmental pollution. Unlike silicon solar cells, perovskite solar cells are an ideal candidate for the fabrication of flexible PV devices because of their good mechanical durability, low temperature processes and low cost.

In this project, we will develop lightweight, flexible, high-performance perovskite PV modules, which provide high power conversion efficiency (PCE), light weight, and high stability and flexibility. Because of these excellent properties, the flexible perovskite PV modules can be applied in PV power stations, and deployed on the rooftops and facades of buildings, and on traffic and agricultural facilities.

This project offers a compatible strategy for the deployment of PVs in high-density cities. It also responds to the government’s aim to “achieve carbon neutrality before 2050” and can help put Hong Kong at the forefront in developing low-cost solar energy.