Japanese engineering company JGC Holdings has stated its plans to commercialize (by 2026) bendable perovskite solar cells that can be installed on curved surfaces, such as chemical tanks, shop walls or domed buildings.
JGC plans to use perovskite solar cells developed by EneCoat Technologies, a Kyoto University startup in which it has a stake. As a first step, the company will test the solar cells on the roof of a warehouse in Tomakomai, Hokkaido, next year. The aim is to start large-scale power generation by 2026, with projected sales of tens of billions of yen (10 billion yen equals $66.7 million) targeted for 2030.
JGC envisions renting space on the roofs and walls of other companies' warehouses or factories and installing solar cell equipment to supply electricity. The electricity generated will be sold at a fixed price under long-term contracts. The power will be used by factories and warehouses or transmitted via power grids to other users, which will require registration with the government as an electric retailer.
It was explained that Japan's feed-in tariff program, which began in 2012, has rapidly expanded solar power generation, and now suitable sites for large-scale solar farms are becoming scarce. The new technology greatly expands installation options, potentially helping advance the nation's shift to renewable energy.
Significantly higher power generation costs for perovskite solar cells is a pain point. The company seeks to lower costs by cutting procurement expenses and developing technology for easy installation. Making the cost below that of existing solar panels by 2028 is the goal.
