Researchers are working on ways to make solar power more efficient and affordable. One promising research approach for making this a reality is the use of perovskite materials. Solar cells based on perovskite can significantly increase efficiency when combined with conventional solar cells. What's more, they can also be manufactured with low material and energy input.

However, they currently have one major drawback: insufficient long-term stability. This instability is especially pronounced when the solar cells are subjected to reverse voltage, a common occurrence in real-world applications, for example when part of a solar module comprising many individual cells in a series becomes shaded. The shaded cell then blocks the flow of the current and is exposed to reverse voltage from the unshaded cells, which can cause permanent damage to the perovskite solar cells.

With the Proof of Concept Grant, the objective is now to develop an innovative component that can be integrated directly into the solar cells and take over the current flow in such instances. This would protect the shaded solar cell and allow for the remaining unshaded solar cells to continue delivering power. 

The project aims to develop a demonstrator using industry-compatible manufacturing processes that can be integrated into existing solar module production lines.

The ERC Proof of Concept Grant is a funding instrument of the European Research Council (ERC) for researchers who have already received an ERC grant. It is designed to test the innovation potential of an idea emerging from an ongoing or completed ERC project and to facilitate its use for commercial innovations.