What's Happening?
Researchers from the University of Warwick, along with Northumbria, Birmingham, and Oxford Universities, have conducted a study indicating that manufacturing next-generation solar panels could significantly cut global carbon emissions. The study, published
in Nature Communications, suggests that by 2035, the adoption of tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) photovoltaics could reduce emissions by up to 8.2 billion tonnes. This new technology is more efficient than the current industry-standard passivated emitter rear cell (PERC) design. The research emphasizes the importance of manufacturing location, noting that producing photovoltaics with low-carbon electricity can further reduce emissions. The study also projects that photovoltaics installed between 2023 and 2035 could avoid more than 25 gigatonnes of carbon emissions by replacing fossil fuel electricity.
Why It's Important?
The findings underscore the critical role of solar photovoltaics in global decarbonization efforts. As the demand for electricity increases, driven by applications in transport, heating, and digital infrastructure, the need for sustainable energy sources becomes more pressing. The transition to TOPCon technology not only promises to reduce the environmental footprint of solar panel manufacturing but also supports the rapid deployment of solar energy on a global scale. This shift could significantly contribute to achieving net-zero emissions targets and enhancing energy security. The study highlights the potential for solar energy to be a cornerstone in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing climate change.
What's Next?
The study suggests that combining TOPCon adoption with manufacturing improvements and grid decarbonization could further enhance the environmental benefits of solar energy. As countries continue to invest in renewable energy, the focus will likely shift towards optimizing the supply chain and manufacturing processes to maximize sustainability. Policymakers and industry leaders may need to consider incentives and regulations that promote the adoption of cleaner manufacturing technologies and the use of low-carbon electricity in production. The ongoing collaboration between leading research institutions could drive further innovations in photovoltaic technology and its applications.
