A Perspective on Perovskite Solar Cells: Emergence, Progress, and Commercialization

With rapid progress in light-to-electric conversion efficiencies, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have exhibited great potential as next-generation low-cost, efficient photovoltaic technology. In this perspective, we briefly review the development of PSCs from discovery to laboratory research to commercializing progress. The past several decades have witnessed great achievement in device efficiency and stability due to tremendous research efforts on compositional, process, and interfacial engineering. Regarding commercial applications, we expound the merits and disadvantages of PSCs compared to the existing silicon photovoltaic technologies. Although PSCs promise solution processability and low manufacturing cost, their limited stability and element toxicity should to be addressed on the path to commercialization. Finally, we provide future perspectives on commercialization of PSCs in the photovoltaic marketplace. It is suggested that PSCs will be more promising in low-cost modules and tandem configurations.