The global energy transition depends on the rapid scaling up of solar power. However, this scale-up cannot rely solely on polycrystalline and mono PERC photovoltaic (PV) modules, which have efficiency in the range of 19-21 per cent. Their limitations, such as lack of bi faciality, faster degradation and underperformance in high-temperature and low-light conditions, further underscore the need to transition towards more advanced PV technologies. Therefore, to reduce the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE), maximise output and enhance performance across diverse operating conditions, newer solar PV technologies including n-type tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) and heterojunction (HJT) are being deployed. Meanwhile, emerging concepts such as perovskite tandems, dye-sensitised soalr cells (DSSCs), organic PV solar cells (OSCs) and quantum dot-based solar cells (QSCs) are being explored.

A look at the latest technological advancements shaping the solar PV space…

Advancements in solar PV technologies

The solar sector is transitioning from multi-busbar, polycrystalline and p-type mono PERC modules to higher-efficiency bifacial n-type TOPCon and HJT modules, driven by the need for greater energy output and higher open-circuit voltages. Bifacial modules are now a standard feature in new solar projects, especially in floating solar projects, leveraging water surface reflectivity to achieve 10-20 per cent higher energy yields compared to monofacial panels.

TOPCon has emerged as the dominant technology in utility-scale solar projects, accounting for a major share of new installations in the space, according to various industry reports. It also exhibits lower first-year degradation compared to PERC.

Meanwhile, HJT accounts for comparatively less share total solar installations, as per industry reports. The production efficiencies for these modules have surpassed 24 per cent, with bifaciality gains nearing 95 ± 3 per cent. Their low temperature coefficient (-0.2 per cent per °C) makes them particularly suitable for high-rise rooftops. These modules are being considered for building-integrated PVs (BIPVs), given their superior low-light and low-temperature performance. Various companies are piloting BIPV-ready HJT modules, targeting commercial building applications.

Emerging PV technologies

Although not yet commercialised at scale, the sector is witnessing steady momentum in the research and development (R&D) and pilot deployment of next-generation PV technologies. In October 2024, researchers reported a 28 per cent efficiency in a lab-scale perovskite-silicon tandem cell using a four-terminal configuration. In December 2024, scientists at the CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science & Technology developed a DSSC prototype with a 40 per cent indoor light conversion efficiency at 4,000 lux, tailored for indoor PV applications. In February 2025, collaborative research between the National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education at IIT Bombay and Colorado State University has yielded a 24.2 per cent efficient perovskite/cadmium telluride tandem prototype.

Lab-scale OSCs and QSCs have demonstrated applications in flexible and portable electronics, with perovskite single-junction efficiencies rising from 3.8 per cent to 26.1 per cent over the past decade. Researchers have also reported 15 per cent efficiency with 35 per cent transmittance for semi-transparent perovskite solar cells, showcasing potential for building-integrated applications.

Key bottlenecks and the future outlook

Advancements in solar PV technologies are beginning to reshape the solar landscape. The adoption of high-efficienc­y n-type TOPCon and bifacial modules has already enabled 10-20 per cent increases in annual energy yield and 5-10 per cent reductions in LCOE compared to mono PERC designs. Bifacial modules built on TOPCon and HJT architectures, with higher energy outputs, are increasingly being deployed in the floating solar and commercial and industrial segments. Meanwhile, advances in perovskite tandem, QDSCs and DSSCs indicate growing maturity, laying the foundation for BIPV and indoor PV applications.

However, several challenges persist. A significant gap exists between module assembly capacity and domestic cell production in many countries, particularly for n-type TOPCon and HJT technologies. As a result, most countries remain heavily dependent on imported cells, particularly from China, where costs are reportedly 20-35 per cent lower according to various media reports. This cost gap, compounded by weak vertical integration, undermines the competitiveness of domestic manufacturers and discourages innovation.

To address these issues, the industry must adopt a multi-pronged approach. Scaling up cell production will require concerted efforts to mobilise capital for new manufacturing facilities, particularly in wafer and cell production, promote continuous technological advancement, and strengthen workforce capabilities through dedicated skill development initiatives. Additionally, the growth of ancillary sectors such as pump storage and the establishment of enabling infrastructure, particularly reliable water supply, land availability, and reliable power, will be critical in supporting solar manufacturing clusters in the country.

At the same time, there is an urgent need to focus on the development of indigenous solar cell technologies that are economically viable and adapted to the country’s climatic conditions, which include high temperatures, dust, and humidity. As a price-sensitive market, countries must prioritise technologies that balance cost, durability, and performance under local operating conditions. This calls for greater investment in R&D aimed specifically at building homegrown solutions, rather than relying solely on imported or unproven global technologies.

Overall, a sustained policy push from the governments, increased public-private investments and innovation in high-efficiency PV technologies will be key to scaling up solar deployment in line. Countries should aim for greater use of emerging and high efficiency solar modules, not only to meet capacity goals, but also to maximise the energy output from solar projects.