IIT Bombay's breakthrough in solar tech

IIT Bombay's Breakthrough in Solar Tech: A Game-Changer

Published on March 20, 2025
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2 Min read time
IIT Bombay's breakthrough in solar tech
Picture Credit: IIT Bombay

Table of Contents

Solar energy is one of the most powerful and abundant sources of renewable energy. Imagine a future where we use fewer solar panels but generate even more electricity! Sounds exciting, right? Well, that future is closer than you think, thanks to IIT Bombay’s breakthrough in solar tech.

IIT Bombay's breakthrough in solar tech
Picture Credit: Chemical Industry Digest

What Did IIT Bombay Achieve?

Researchers at IIT Bombay have developed a new kind of solar cell that can achieve 30% efficiency, with the potential to reach 45% in the future. This is a huge improvement over traditional solar cells, which usually have an efficiency of around 20%. This means that the new solar cells can generate more electricity using fewer panels, saving space and money!

The Secret Ingredient

The secret behind this innovation is perovskite, a special material that is layered on top of regular silicon solar cells. Perovskite is known for its ability to absorb sunlight efficiently and convert it into electricity at a lower cost. However, earlier versions of perovskite solar cells were not very stable. Scientists at IIT Bombay have now solved this problem, making the new solar cells more durable and reliable.

How This Can Change the World

With IIT Bombay’s breakthrough in solar tech, India can become a leader in next-generation solar technology. The Maharashtra government is already supporting this project and plans to build a 300-MW pilot solar plant in Uran. This means that India will rely less on expensive solar panels from other countries and could even start exporting its own high-efficiency solar technology!

Benefits for Everyone

This innovation will not only help large industries but also benefit ordinary people. Here’s how:

  • Fewer Solar Panels Needed – Instead of installing 8-10 solar panels for a house, you may only need 6-8.
  • Lower Costs – Less wiring, fewer materials, and reduced installation costs will make solar power more affordable.
  • Better for the Environment – More efficiency means less land is required for solar farms, protecting nature and reducing pollution.

Solar Panels in Space?

Yes, you read that right! The scientists at IIT Bombay are also in talks to use these high-efficiency solar cells in Indian satellites. Spacecraft need lightweight and powerful solar panels to generate electricity while orbiting Earth. With this new technology, satellites could produce more power while carrying less weight!

What’s Next for Solar Energy?

Professor Dinesh Kabra from IIT Bombay believes that this technology could revolutionize the solar industry in just a few years. The Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA) is working with international banks to invest in this project. If all goes well, this innovation will soon be available for homes, businesses, and industries worldwide.

Why Is This Important for India?

Right now, China dominates the solar panel market. But with IIT Bombay’s breakthrough in solar tech, India has a chance to become a leader in this field. Since perovskite is available in abundance, India can produce solar panels at a much lower cost and create thousands of jobs in the renewable energy sector.

The Future is Bright

With IIT Bombay‘s breakthrough in solar tech, the dream of making solar energy more efficient and affordable is becoming a reality. This innovation could change the way we use solar power, making it more accessible for everyone.

Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor

Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.

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