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Current status and perspective of colored photovoltaic modules

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  • Hyunho Lee
  • Hyung‐Jun Song

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) systems, which directly convert solar light into electricity, are one of the most attractive renewable energy sources to fulfill the increased demand for clean energy. The accumulated installation of PV systems has expanded rapidly, reaching over 700 GW in 2020. Although black colored PVs maximize energy generation by harvesting a broad range of solar light, their monotonous color limits their installation in urban areas and portable devices where the harmonization of color with neighboring exterior elements is a high priority. Moreover, it is not suitable for covering transparent area of buildings, such as window and curtain wall. Hence, the demand for aesthetic PV systems is increasing significantly. In this review, we focus on the current status of colored PV systems and their prospects for aesthetic energy harvesting system. This work reviews possible approaches to realize colored PV systems by implementing semitransparent cells, selective reflective films, and luminophores. Additionally, the research progress to minimize light sacrifice for color production has been investigated. Moreover, the technical limitations of each technology for colored PV systems are presented in terms of color purity and efficiency. Finally, obstacles to commercialization and their solutions are discussed. Therefore, this study provides a crucial review of the latest developments and current status in the field of colored PV systems. This article is categorized under: Photovoltaics > Science and Materials

Suggested Citation

  • Hyunho Lee & Hyung‐Jun Song, 2021. "Current status and perspective of colored photovoltaic modules," Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Energy and Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 10(6), November.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:wireae:v:10:y:2021:i:6:n:e403
    DOI: 10.1002/wene.403
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    1. Martina Pelle & Francesco Causone & Laura Maturi & David Moser, 2023. "Opaque Coloured Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV): A Review of Models and Simulation Frameworks for Performance Optimisation," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(4), pages 1-20, February.
    2. Wang, Chengchao & Lu, Kai & Li, Chengyuan & Ma, Lanxin & Li, Xingcan & Zhou, Yan, 2025. "Machine learning-assisted design of visibly transparent difunctional coatings for solar cell coloring and anti-reflection," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 249(C).
    3. Manni, Mattia & Melkert, Tom & Lobaccaro, Gabriele & Jelle, Bjørn Petter, 2025. "Implementation and validation of virtual clones of coloured building-integrated photovoltaic facades," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 378(PA).
    4. Li, Sinan & Chen, Yuning & Li, Tao & Li, Zhenpeng & Ma, Tao, 2025. "Multilayer thin film design for neutral-colored opaque photovoltaics," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 378(PA).
    5. Young-Su Kim & A-Rong Kim & Sung-Ju Tark, 2022. "Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Modules Using Additive-Manufactured Optical Pattern," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(4), pages 1-13, February.
    6. Li, Zhenpeng & Ma, Tao, 2022. "Theoretic efficiency limit and design criteria of solar photovoltaics with high visual perceptibility," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 324(C).
    7. Kalavala Shivaprakash Srivishnu & Prasutha Rani Markapudi & Senthilarasu Sundaram & Lingamallu Giribabu, 2023. "Semitransparent Perovskite Solar Cells for Building Integrated Photovoltaics: Recent Advances," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(2), pages 1-25, January.

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