Emerging photovoltaic materials and technologies

The world is rapidly transitioning to a clean energy future, with renewables expected to contribute to nearly 50% of the global electricity mix by 2030. A key driver for clean energy and net-zero goals is photovoltaic (PV) technology, which allows harvesting solar energy for our electricity needs. According to a study cited in the report, the global installed capacity of PV systems has grown from 1.2 TW in 2022 to 1.6 TW in 2023. Emerging PV technologies are set to further revolutionize the new energy sector by reducing costs, improving efficiency, and expanding applications. Amidst rapid development in the photovoltaic industry, this societal and technology trend report serves as a systematic summary of the history, status, and key technologies of emerging photovoltaics. The report examines emerging PV technologies like perovskite, organic, and quantum-dot PV materials, with a primary focus on perovskites, one of the fastest-developing and most promising technologies. It evaluates real-world application scenarios, highlights key challenges including in performance and manufacturing, and aims to aid the IEC and partners in understanding and supporting these technologies. This IEC societal and technology trend report was developed by the Societal and Technology Trend Working Group (STTWG) in the IEC Market Strategy Board ( MSB ), and is available for free download .