In the realm of solar manufacturing, a groundbreaking shift is underway as GraphEnergyTech, a company originating from a Swiss-British university collaboration, spearheads a transformative innovation. This pioneering endeavor revolves around the development of graphene electrode technology poised to supplant the conventional use of silver and other metals in the production of photovoltaic (PV) cells.

At the core of this technological advancement lies the exceptional conductivity of graphene-based electrodes designed by GraphEnergyTech. These electrodes are strategically integrated into various solar cell types, such as silicon heterojunction (SHJ) and perovskite solar cells. Noteworthy for its chemical stability and cost efficiency, graphene emerges as a versatile material compatible with standard industry processes like screen printing and doctor blading. Thomas Baumeler, the CEO of GraphEnergyTech, envisions a future where their solution mimics the simplicity of inkjet printing, utilizing piezo-electric dispensers for seamless application.

In a strategic partnership with the University of Cambridge, Taiwan Perovskite Solar Corp (TPSC), and Taiwan’s Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), GraphEnergyTech embarks on a collaborative project named GETPSC. This initiative, commencing in early 2025 with substantial funding support from Innovate UK, aims to advance commercial perovskite solar modules by incorporating GraphEnergyTech’s graphene electrodes. The overarching goal is to drive down production costs while enhancing performance.

Simultaneously, GraphEnergyTech is actively engaged in the SiLEAN project, a Horizon Europe-funded endeavor focusing on silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells. Through the formulation of advanced carbon-based inks suitable for scalable printing methods, the project aims to revolutionize the manufacturing process by replacing silver electrodes. By reducing dependency on critical raw materials and embracing environmentally friendly practices, the project endeavors to enhance the scalability and sustainability of SHJ solar cells.

The distinguished lineup of GraphEnergyTech’s co-founders, including luminaries like Michael Grätzel and Andrea Ferrari, underscores the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Notably, a significant financial boost in 2024 led by Aramco Ventures has further catalyzed the company’s trajectory towards reshaping the solar manufacturing landscape.

In essence, the advent of graphene electrode technology marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of solar manufacturing, heralding a future where silver dependency is rendered obsolete. GraphEnergyTech’s relentless pursuit of excellence and sustainability underscores a paradigm shift towards a more efficient and environmentally conscious solar industry.