A Review on Next-Generation Solar Solutions: Pioneering Materials and Designs for Sustainable Energy Harvesting

Abstract

As an essential initial step towards clean and sustainable energy, this research focuses on innovative materials and structural designs for maximizing solar energy conversion and harvesting. Modern solar thermal and photovoltaic system technologies and supplies are examined to show how alternative electricity has become less expensive and more sustainable. The primary focus is on complex ideas like multiple junctions and tandem solar cells, which increase the efficiency of single-junction systems. The review paper investigates innovative solar power storage solutions, involving battery technology and energy storage materials, to meet the increasing need for secure and easily available sources of clean energy. The research paper explores the technology and uses of flat plate collectors, tube collectors, and solar power plants and how those are used in residential and commercial solar thermal systems. Solar energy conversion efficiency and sustainability will improve with innovations in materials and architecture. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is one of the easiest solar system architectures that can be integrated into any residential or commercial building. Quantum dot solar cells, photovoltaic (PV) solar energy frameworks, such as CIGS thin-film solar cells, and organic photovoltaics (OPVs). Organic photovoltaics are portable and lightweight but have a low energy conversion rate, whereas quantum dot solar cells have a high energy conversion rate but face fabrication challenges.