What's Next for the Future of Silicon Solar Cells?

The smarter E Podcast Episode 195 | October 17, 2024 | Language: English

Silicon solar cells have been the backbone of the recent solar boom and will continue to be the driving force behind an energy transition with a high proportion of cost-effective solar power available in the future. The groundbreaking technological development of silicon PV technology has led to significant efficiency gains.

At the 15th Silicon PV International Conference on Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaics 2025 , to be held in Oxford from 8-11 April, scientists and industry representatives will discuss what we can expect from silicon solar cells in the coming years.

Ahead of the conference, we spoke to Sebastian Bonilla and Matthew Wright (both chairpersons of SiliconPV 2025) from the University of Oxford about the hot topics in silicon PV research and product development.

Timeline:

  • 02:17 What are the latest advances in industrial silicon solar cells?
  • 08:11 What market shares are expected for the established p-type and n-type silicon cell technologies over the next few years?
  • 12:24 What are the drivers of these developments?
  • 16:29 What changes can be achieved in the global solar PV landscape with their market entry?
  • 21:42 What progress are we seeing in sustainable manufacturing at industrial production scale?

The smarter E podcast is all about the current trends and developments in a renewable, decentralized and digital energy industry. Our moderators Tobias Bücklein and Zackes Brustik welcome and interview personalities who shape our industry and drive developments forward. A new episode is published every Thursday.

Click on the logo to listen to the podcast on the platform of your choice.

Sebastian Bonilla, Oxford Materials Department, UK
Matthew Wright, Oxford Materials Department, UK

Sebastian Bonilla specializes electronic materials and is an Associate Professor of Materials and has been researching semiconductor interfaces and its application to optoelectronic devices for 13 years at the University of Oxford.
Matthew Wright is a Marie Curie postdoctoral fellow in the Electronic and Interface Materials Laboratory. he specializes in indium free transparent conductors for tandem solar cells.

The World’s Leading Exhibition for the Solar Industry
Learn more
Further Content
Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026
Welcome & Keynote: Policy, Regulation & Finance

Wednesday, September 02, 2026, 02:30 pm

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

This session explores how effective policy frameworks, streamlined regulations, and innovative financing solutions can work together to accelerate the global expansion of solar energy. Bringing together perspectives from policymakers, investors, and industry leaders, it will examine how supportive regulatory environments reduce investment risk, attract private capital, and enable the successful development of solar and hybrid energy projects. Through best practices, emerging funding mechanisms, and real-world case studies, participants will gain practical insights into mobilizing capital, fostering investor confidence, and creating the conditions for sustainable growth across both established and emerging solar markets.

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026
Cybersecurity in the Digital Energy Transition: Building Resilient Energy Systems

Wednesday, September 02, 2026, 01:15 pm

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

Discover how advanced digital technologies are transforming solar operations. This session explores AI-driven analytics, IoT-enabled monitoring, and blockchain-based transparency to optimize performance, streamline maintenance, and enhance profitability. Learn how smart grids and data intelligence are shaping the next generation of efficient, resilient solar energy systems.

The smarter E South America Conferences 2026
The Social Side of Solar, Universal Access, ESG and job Creation

Thursday, August 27, 2026, 04:00 pm

The smarter E South America Conferences 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

Solar energy is playing an increasingly important role in social inclusion and sustainable development. Its expansion contributes to universal electricity access, the strengthening of ESG practices, and the generation of local jobs and income. This panel will discuss social impacts, public policies, and workforce training, promoting a discussion on economic growth with social and environmental responsibility.

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026
Welcome Note & Opening Keynote: MIDDLE EAST ENERGY SECURITY and Transition REPORT: Preliminary Findings

Tuesday, September 01, 2026, 12:30 pm

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

Discover how solar energy is driving a worldwide shift toward sustainable power. This keynote explores cutting-edge innovations, global adoption trends, and the policies accelerating change. Gain insights into how solar technology is transforming industries, empowering communities, and shaping a cleaner, more resilient energy future.

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026
Keynote: Trans-Mediterranean Energy and Clean Tech Cooperation Initiative

Tuesday, September 01, 2026, 01:00 pm

Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Conference Program

premium account

Industry experts share strategic insights on solar market growth, investment trends, and policy developments across MENA and emerging markets. Explore opportunities, challenges, and innovations shaping the next five years, and understand how regional dynamics influence the global transition to renewable energy.

You are using an outdated browser

The website cannot be viewed in this browser. Please open the website in an up-to-date browser such as Edge, Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.