Next-Generation Solar Cells

RESTART supports research into advanced photovoltaic technologies capable of delivering efficient, sustainable and affordable renewable energy solutions for Africa.

Why Solar Energy?

Africa possesses some of the world’s most favourable solar resources. Harnessing this resource effectively could help address energy poverty, improve energy security and support sustainable development.

Perovskite Solar Cells

Perovskite solar cells have emerged as one of the most exciting developments in renewable energy research. These devices can achieve efficiencies comparable with conventional silicon technologies while offering lower manufacturing costs and greater flexibility.

Researchers within RESTART are investigating:

• Device stability and lifetime.
• Reproducibility of fabrication.
• Defect formation and transport properties.
• Environmentally sustainable alternatives to lead-containing materials.

Organic Solar Cells

Organic solar cells offer lightweight, printable and potentially flexible alternatives for future photovoltaic technologies. Their unique properties may enable applications that are difficult to achieve with conventional technologies.

The Role of Synchrotrons

Using powerful synchrotron X-rays, researchers can study the structure and behaviour of solar-cell materials at microscopic and atomic scales. This helps scientists understand why devices succeed, why they fail and how future generations can be improved.