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Perovskite solar cells are an exciting emerging solar technology nearing commercialisation, said Swansea University A UK university is to develop and manufacture sustainable perovskite solar modules (PSM) in Africa, at the same time empowering local communities and promoting sustainable energy. The Swansea University-led project has been awarded £3 million (around $3.7m) to roll out the project which will develop local manufacturing capabilities of perovskite solar modules in Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya and South Africa. REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) aims to establish the continent’s first full-scale demonstration of next-generation solar manufacturing. What is a Perovskite solar structure? According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the term perovskite refers not to a specific material (like silicon) but to a whole family of compounds. The perovskite family of solar materials is named for its structural similarity to a mineral called perovskite (discovered in 1839 and named after Russian mineralogist LA Perovski). The original mineral perovskite, which is calcium titanium oxide (CaTiO3), has a distinctive crystal configuration. It has a three-part structure, whose components have come to be labeled A, B and X, in which lattices of the different components are interlaced. The family of perovskites consists of the many possible combinations of elements or molecules that can occupy each of the three components and form a structure similar to that of the original perovskite itself. Research Gate said previously that since its first discovery in 1839, perovskite materials have received strong research interests and are gaining tremendous developments over the past and recent decades. “Nowadays, they are being recognised among the most promising materials in renewable energy sources, energy storage, and pollutant degradation of the 21st century due to their superior catalytic and photoelectric properties.” The University said perovskite solar cells are an exciting emerging solar technology nearing commercialisation. “They can be manufactured at a lower cost and with less energy compared to silicon and can use more sustainable materials and processes, providing a more resilient and adaptable energy solution.” Focus on sustainable solar technologies Funded by the UKRI Ayrton Challenge Programme, REACH-PSM is a collaboration with universities, businesses, and local communities in Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya and South Africa. The project builds on existing programmes at Swansea University, including TEA@SUNRISE and UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies, which focus on sustainable solar technologies in low- and middle-income countries. A key element of REACH-PSM will be developing efficient end-of-life treatment to minimise waste and maximise the circular flow of materials through reuse, refurbishment and recycling of solar modules. A new manufacturing process designed for a circular economy from the outset. Aim is to close energy access gap through the perovskite solar module project Professor Matthew Davies, Principal Investigator of REACH-PSM, said: “Through REACH-PSM, we are bringing together world-class expertise in sustainable materials, photovoltaic technology and local manufacturing to help revolutionise energy access and resilience across Africa. “By developing perovskite modules that are not only efficient but also sourced and produced locally and designed for efficient end-of-life processes, we hope to empower communities, strengthen supply chains, and help usher in a more equitable, low-carbon energy future.” However, with the potential for manufacturing PSM on the continent, REACH-PSM aims to improve social welfare and promote new, clean economic growth, said the University. Currently, more than 500 million people in Africa lack access to electricity, a figure that has risen in recent years. Frances Wood, UKRI International Director, said: “The Ayrton Challenge Programme demonstrates the power of research and innovation to address critical global challenges. These projects exemplify how equitable, interdisciplinary collaboration can unlock transformative solutions, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive energy future for all.” |
