Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells with Higher Energy Conversion Rate

A Melbourne based research team has devised a new method that would increase the energy conversion rate of dye-sensitized solar cells than previously reported. Under the guidance of Dr. Udo Bach, scientists of Monash University, along with scientists from the University of Wollongong and Ulm, developed a more efficient type of dye. This dye ensures higher efficiency of inverse dye-sensitized solar cells.

Before this technology was developed, several solar cells were stacked together with photovoltaic cells to enhance energy generation. The new method (also known as the tandem method) passes positive charges to a semiconductor when dye molecules are illuminated by light. This method gives a three-fold increase in energy conversion efficiency when compared to other methods of generating dye sensitive solar cells.

Mr. Mouli Cohen, a strong advocate for developing green technologies, said that dye-sensitive solar cells are very cost-effective and much easier to develop. He further stated that this technology would pave the way for exploring another avenue towards 'reducing usage of carbon and increasing practical production of energy.