I love your aspirations to build a clean energy grid.

I love your aspirations to build a clean energy grid. Forest | Denver, CO

FOREST, WE ALSO Love COLORADO'S EFFORTS TO ADVANCE CLEAN ENERGY.  

That’s why we’re developing more efficient solar panels to generate energy with fewer resources. 

Campus Location

Boulder Boulder
A man inspects solar panels on a roof
External Link Researchers Take Major Step Toward Developing Next-Generation Solar Cells

CU Boulder scientists are taking a major step toward cleaner energy with groundbreaking work on next-generation solar cells. Led by Professor Michael McGehee, the team is exploring how to use perovskite, a material that could outperform the silicon panels we use today, which only convert about 22% of sunlight into electricity. 

One major breakthrough came when researchers discovered that adding a compound called DMAFo stops perovskite cells from breaking down when exposed to air. This means they can be produced on a larger scale in normal conditions. These improved cells have already reached 25% efficiency, a key milestone for making them commercially viable. 

Even more exciting, the team is working on “tandem” cells that layer perovskite with traditional silicon. These could convert over 50% more solar energy than current panels, making them a game-changer for renewable energy. 

While durability tests are still needed, McGehee and his team are optimistic about the future of perovskite cells. Their work could bring us closer to a world powered entirely by advanced solar technology. 

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