Sunita Somvanshi
GCL Optoelectronics, a unit of GCL Group, achieved a 27.34% power conversion efficiency for its 2,050 cm² perovskite-silicon tandem solar module, as certified by China’s Academy of Metrology in October 2024. This achievement marks a significant step in commercial-scale perovskite technology deployment.
The 27.34% certification represents an improvement from the 26.36% efficiency reported in April 2024, showcasing the ongoing advancement in tandem technology at the module level rather than just in laboratory cell tests.
In October 2024, GCL’s 1m×2m single-junction perovskite module (19.04% efficiency) successfully passed IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 tests conducted by TÜV Rheinland. These industry-standard tests include damp-heat exposure and thermal cycling that validate durability and reliability. GCL has stated that its modules demonstrate degradation patterns similar to conventional silicon modules.
Real-world validation comes from a 1 MW installation at China Three Gorges’ site, where GCL’s perovskite modules have been deployed since late 2023 for field testing.
GCL has announced development of AI-assisted manufacturing processes for perovskite production. While specific technical details remain proprietary, the company has indicated that advanced manufacturing techniques are helping to improve consistency and quality of perovskite modules.
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The company built the world’s first 100 MW perovskite module production line in September 2021, demonstrating commitment to scaling this technology beyond laboratory settings.
GCL has allocated RMB 700 million for a 500 MW pilot production line in Kunshan, with strategic investors including Tencent, Temasek, Sequoia, and IDG. This facility is planned to be operational by mid-2025, with full-scale production expected later.
Current modules employ TOPCon bottom cells, with GCL SI producing 605W N-type TOPCon modules at 23.42% efficiency as certified by TÜV Rheinland in November 2024. Industry trends suggest a potential future transition to heterojunction (HJT) technology for bottom cells, though specific timelines have not been officially announced.
At Intersolar Europe in June 2024, GCL spokesperson Martin Wang stated that the company’s perovskite-silicon tandem modules are projected to reach a cost of $0.075 per watt, approximately half the cost of current $0.15/W crystalline silicon modules. This pricing would leverage GCL’s vertical integration capabilities, including in-house silicon production facilities.
Environmental stewardship remains an important aspect of GCL’s approach to perovskite technology. The company has acknowledged the importance of developing appropriate recycling processes for perovskite materials, though specific recovery rates and carbon footprint data remain to be published.
This latest efficiency milestone demonstrates steady progress toward commercial viability of perovskite-silicon tandem technology, balancing performance gains with manufacturing scalability and field reliability.
