Volume 10, Issue 4, April – 2025 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology

ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25apr076

Recent Innovations in Photovoltaic Systems for

Efficient Solar Energy Generation
Pushpendra Diwakar1; Sejal Anand2; Subhash Chander Swami3; Chirag Arora4
3;4
Assistant Professor
1
Electrical Department Arya Institute of Engineering Technology and Management Jaipur, India
2
Electrical Department Arya Institute of Engineering Technology and Management Jaipur, India
3
Electrical Department Arya Institute of Engineering Technology and Management Jaipur, India
4
Electrical Department Arya College of Engineering Jaipur, India

Publication Date: 2025/04/07

Abstract: The field of photovoltaic (PV) technology has seen notable advancements, enhancing the efficiency, affordability,
and accessibility of solar energy systems. This paper examines recent developments in PV technology, focusing on
improvements in materials, cell structures, and manufacturing techniques that contribute to better performance and lower
costs. It explores emerging technologies such as perovskite, tandem, and organic solar cells, analyzing their efficiency,
stability, and scalability challenges. Additionally, the study discusses cost-reduction strategies, including roll-to-roll
printing and thin-film deposition. Innovations in energy storage, solar tracking, and concentrator systems are also
highlighted for their role in enhancing solar energy capture. Environmental impacts related to PV production, operation,
and disposal are considered, alongside economic and policy factors supporting PV adoption. The paper addresses future
challenges and research directions needed to further advance PV technology’s role in sustainable energy generation.

Keywords: Technological Advancements, Photovoltaic Systems, Solar Energy Generation, Perovskite Solar Cells, Tandem Cells,
Energy Storage Integration, Solar Tracking, Concentrator Technology, Cost Reduction, Environmental Impacts, Energy
Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Solar Manufacturing Techniques, Policy Support, Future Challenges.

How to Cite: Pushpendra Diwakar; Sejal Anand; Subhash Chander Swami; Chirag Arora (2025). Recent Innovations in
Photovoltaic Systems for Efficient Solar Energy Generation. International Journal of Innovative Science and Research
Technology, 10(4), 10-15. https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25apr076

I. INTRODUCTION abundant, and eco-friendly solution, with forecasts suggesting

it will dominate power generation by 2040. PV technology
 Overview relies on semiconducting materials to transform sunlight into
The rising global demand for electricity underscores its electrical energy, a concept first demonstrated in 1954
crucial role in economic growth and enhancing living through a p-n junction solar cell, achieving an initial
standards. Although fossil fuels are still in use, increasing efficiency of 6%. Solar cells, made from various
environmental concerns have accelerated the transition toward semiconductor materials, are typically thin and protected by
renewable energy, with solar power emerging as a leading glass or plastic for durability.[6]
alternative. Photovoltaic (PV) energy offers a sustainable,

Fig 1 A Basic Solar Cell

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ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25apr076
 How Does Solar Photovoltaic Work?  Manufacturing Techniques
A photovoltaic (PV) cell operates through a three-step Silicon Wafer Technologies: Techniques like diamond
process: wire sawing and kerfless wafering reduce material use and
cost, improving the efficiency of silicon-based cells. Thin-
 When sunlight reaches a solar panel, its photons interact Film Solar Cells: Technologies such as roll-to-roll deposition
with the semiconducting material, typically silicon, in CdTe and CIGS cells enable cost-effective, large-scale
initiating the absorption process. production, providing competitive alternatives to traditional
 The absorbed energy excites electrons, freeing them from silicon cells.
their atomic structure and enabling their movement
through the semiconductor, which results in electricity III. EMERGING PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV)
generation. TECHNOLOGY
 The structure of solar cells is engineered to direct the
movement of electrons in a single, controlled pathway.  Efficiency Enhancement:
This part adopts some new materials like perovskites,
organic semiconductors, and quantum dots, as well as
alternative techniques such as multiple-junction solar cells,
anti-reflective coatings, light-trapping structures, and CPV to
improve light absorption and conversion rates.

 Advanced Materials
Systems employ perovskites, organic semiconductors,
quantum dots, tandem cells, and nanostructures which
produce better results and cost less to produce. Innovations
such as transparent and bifacial modules, and the use of 2D
materials, thus concluding benefits of efficiency and
flexibility in solar technology.

 Energy Storage Integration

The latest batteries (e.g., lithium-ion, solid-state), smart
charge controllers, energy management systems, and hybrid
PV systems stabilize the power output and grid
independence. Time-of-use optimization and remote
monitoring are the methods applied for effective energy flow
and the system is thus made reliable.

 Durability and Reliability

To extend the system's operating time, such actions as
Fig 2 Solar Panel Diagram the use of durable components, strict quality control
measures, weatherproofing, regular maintenance, and
II. EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS protection mechanisms are key. Eventually, the installation
methods, the monitoring, and the recycling of dead stages at
 New Materials the end of a real-time project are some of the ways of getting
Perovskite solar cells are recognized for their superior a long-term impact.
efficiency and cost-effective manufacturing process.
Perovskite cells have advanced through composition tuning,  Cost Reduction
interface engineering, and encapsulation, yielding higher Cost reduction could be achieved through methods like
power conversion efficiencies.[6] larger-scale production, making the production process more
efficient, reducing BOS costs, supply chain optimization.
Tandem Solar Cells: By integrating silicon with Increasing material and manufacturing efficiencies also
perovskites or III-V semiconductors, tandem cells expand contribute to cost-structure improvement, operators'
solar spectrum absorption, enhancing efficiency and productivity, and supply chain resilience.
optimizing energy conversion.
IV. MANUFACTURING INNOVATIONS IN
 Innovative Cell Designs PHOTOVOLTAIC TECHNOLOGY
PERC Cells: Adding a passivation layer to reduce
recombination losses, PERC cells increase efficiency and  Anti-Reflective and Self-Cleaning Coatings
integrate seamlessly with existing manufacturing processes, To enhance solar panel efficiency, anti-reflective
making them widely adopted in the industry. Heterojunction coatings (ARCs) are used to minimize light reflection. ARCs
Cells: By utilizing both amorphous and crystalline silicon, lower the reflection index of PV cover glass, boosting light
these cells enhance charge separation and reduce interface transmission. Self-cleaning coatings—hydrophobic and
losses, leading to improved efficiency.[6]

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hydrophilic—help remove dirt and dust, especially in areas  Active: Employs electric or hydraulic drives.
prone to soiling, maintaining panel efficiency.
 Open-Loop: Relies on pre-set sun position data.
 Surface Texturing and Light-Trapping
Surface texturing reduces reflection and improves light  Solar Concentrators
absorption by creating roughness on the cell surface. Focuses sunlight from a large area onto a smaller
Methods like pyramid texturing enhance light trapping, receiver for energy amplification.
which increases the cell’s optical thickness and improves
photon absorption, boosting overall efficiency.  Types:

 Automation in PV Operations  Parabolic Trough: Curved mirrors focus sunlight on a

Automation and robotics streamline solar PV tube with fluid; requires a tracking system, often used in
operations, reducing labor dependence. Digital technologies large-scale CSP plants.
like IoT, AI, and 5G enhance monitoring and maintenance,  Hyperboloid: Compact, secondary concentrator with two
optimizing the performance and longevity of solar hyperbolic sections; used in systems like SolFocus, which
installations. achieves 250W per panel.
 Fresnel Lens: Thin lens with multiple facets directing
V. ENERGY STORAGE INTEGRATION light to a focal point; economical in material use, suitable
for both direct and diffuse light but prone to
Coordinating battery and supercapacitor (SC) storage manufacturing errors affecting focus.
enhances microgrid performance by managing solar PV
fluctuations. Ramp-rate (RR) and step-rate (SR) control VII. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
methods were tested, showing RR to be more energy-
efficient and responsive, achieving 98.07% efficiency versus  Positive Impacts
SR's 95.6%.In power distribution systems (PDS), integrating Advancements in photovoltaic (PV) technology are
solar PV distributed generation (SPVDG) with battery energy driving significant environmental benefits. A major
storage (BESS) helps reduce peak demand. Using a hybrid improvement is the enhanced efficiency of solar panels,
optimization algorithm, SPVDG-BESS placement was which enables higher energy conversion from sunlight,
optimized, outperforming existing methods on the IEEE 69- thereby requiring less space to generate the same power
bus PDS, contributing to a cleaner energy solution.[7] output. This reduces the ecological impact of PV installations
while encouraging broader adoption of solar energy,
Orbiting solar reflectors (OSRs) present an alternative ultimately lowering dependence on fossil fuels. Additionally,
to energy storage by extending solar generation through modern PV innovations aim to decrease the use of scarce or
space-reflected sunlight. Economic analysis favors OSRs hazardous materials, such as crystalline silicon, by
over traditional storage systems, offering greater profitability incorporating alternatives like thin-film solar cells. These
for solar farms. Flexible PV systems, providing ancillary developments support more sustainable solar energy
services like frequency regulation, enhance grid stability. production by conserving valuable resources.
These systems manage renewable variability more cost-
effectively than traditional generators, supporting a reliable Another key progress area is the advancement of solar
and sustainable grid transition. panel recycling and end-of-life management. Emerging
techniques are improving material recovery and recyclability,
VI. SOLAR TRACKING AND fostering a circular economy within the industry.
CONCENTRATION Furthermore, Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV)
systems are gaining traction, incorporating solar panels into
 Solar Tracking Systems architectural elements such as windows, facades, and
Automatically adjusts solar panels to follow the sun, rooftops. This approach reduces land usage, enhances
increasing energy output by up to 40%. aesthetics, and maximizes energy generation. Lastly, refined
manufacturing processes are making solar panel production
 Types: more eco-friendly by lowering energy consumption,
minimizing waste, and reducing emissions, thereby
 Single-Axis: Horizontal or vertical, suited for specific amplifying the sustainability of PV technologies.[8]
regions (horizontal for tropical; vertical for high
latitudes).  Negative Impacts
Although PV technologies offer numerous benefits,
 Dual-Axis: Tracks both east-west and north-south, their production and deployment also present environmental
suitable for global use and high accuracy. challenges. The extraction and refinement of essential
materials like silicon, cadmium, tellurium, and silver for solar
 Drive Mechanisms: panels can result in pollution, habitat loss, and energy-
intensive processes. Additionally, while solar panels provide
 Passive: Uses solar heat for movement. clean energy during operation, their manufacturing can be

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resource-intensive, especially when fossil fuels are involved, IX. CHALLENGES
contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
 Performance
Another concern is waste management, as solar panels The performance of solar panels is critical for
have an operational lifespan of approximately 25 to 30 years. efficiency, typically tested under Standard Test Conditions
Once they reach the end of their service life, improper (STC) and Photovoltaics for Utility-Scale Applications
disposal and inefficient recycling methods can lead to (PTC). While STC tests panels under fixed conditions, PTC
environmental contamination through hazardous substances simulates real-world scenarios with higher temperatures,
and heavy metals. Furthermore, certain PV technologies, leading to a 8-10% lower output. Variations in manufacturing
including concentrating solar power (CSP) systems, require processes can cause power output fluctuations of 5-6%.
significant water usage for cooling, which can strain water
resources in regions already experiencing scarcity.[8]  Manufacturability
Solar panels convert 15-22% of sunlight into usable
Large-scale solar installations may also impact land use energy, with monocrystalline panels offering the highest
and ecosystems, particularly if natural habitats are disturbed efficiency. However, achieving higher efficiency while
or agricultural land is repurposed for solar farms. To address reducing costs remains a challenge, with material costs
these concerns, thorough planning and environmental impact playing a key role in price fluctuations.
assessments are essential to minimize adverse effects and
promote the sustainable growth of PV technology.  Reliability
PV systems must function effectively over time, with a
VIII. POLICIES REGARDING SOLAR minimum lifespan of 20 years. High-quality materials that
PHOTOVOLTAIC TECHNOLOGY resist environmental factors such as moisture and impact are
essential to ensure reliability and avoid costly reinstallation.
 Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs) Policy
Feed-in tariffs guarantee a fixed payment per kilowatt-  Location
hour of electricity produced by renewable energy sources, Efficiency is heavily influenced by location and the
such as solar. Countries like Germany and Spain use FiTs, positioning of panels. Regions with abundant sunlight are
offering payments that encourage investment in renewable ideal, and tracking systems can enhance performance by
energy and provide stability to producers. following the sun's movement.

 Net Metering Policy X. FUTURE OUTLOOK

Net metering allows solar PV system owners to send
surplus electricity back to the grid and receive credits, A. Ongoing Research and Development Efforts
offsetting their energy costs. This policy reduces payback Ongoing research is dedicated to improving the
periods for PV systems and contributes to grid reliability. stability, efficiency, and durability of photovoltaic (PV) cells
Regulations vary by jurisdiction. and modules. One promising advancement is exciton fission,
a process in which a single photon generates two electrons,
 Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) and Renewable significantly enhancing energy conversion. Researchers are
Energy Targets Policy exploring materials such as pentacene, which have
RPS mandates that energy suppliers increase their demonstrated this effect, offering potential improvements to
renewable energy procurement. It’s widely used in countries traditional silicon-based PV technology. Recent studies have
like the USA, India, and the UK, helping achieve renewable provided deeper insights into the mechanisms behind exciton
energy adoption targets. Flexibility in compliance is offered fission, paving the way for more efficient solar energy
through the trading of renewable energy certificates. solutions.

 Investment Tax Credits (ITCs) and Grants Policy Organic solar cells also hold great promise for
ITCs provide tax credits to reduce the cost of installing renewable energy applications, but their efficiency tends to
solar PV systems, while grants offer direct monetary support degrade rapidly under prolonged sunlight exposure. Recent
to reduce installation expenses. Both encourage wider breakthroughs have identified the root causes of this issue,
adoption of solar energy and make it more affordable for enabling the development of more stable organic materials
individuals and businesses. that can extend the lifespan and practicality of organic solar
technology. Meanwhile, advancements in artificial
 Green Building Codes and Standards intelligence (AI) are driving the creation of high-efficiency
Green Building Codes promote energy efficiency and solar cells optimized for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. AI-
sustainability in construction, often encouraging the powered energy management can enhance the performance
integration of solar PV systems. These policies are linked to of these solar cells, leading to more effective energy
certification programs like LEED and BREEAM, driving the solutions in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and
adoption of solar technology in new buildings. Compliance smart cities.
with these standards ensures energy-efficient and
environmentally responsible construction. Another key development is the simplification of
perovskite solar cell (PSC) manufacturing. PSCs are gaining

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attention due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness, and absorption properties make them ideal for applications in IoT
researchers have introduced a one-step solution-coating devices and larger solar installations. However, their stability
method that streamlines production, making remains a key area for further research.
commercialization more feasible. These advancements
position PSCs as a crucial technology in the future of solar
energy.

Experts emphasize that the next decade will be critical

for the expansion of PV technology. Rapid scaling of
manufacturing and deployment is necessary to meet global
energy demands, as waiting for uncertain future
breakthroughs is no longer a viable approach. Immediate
action is required to accelerate PV system integration,
ensuring a sustainable energy future.

B. Prospects
The prospects for PV technology continue to look
promising with numerous opportunities for further
innovation.
Fig 4 Perovskite Solar Cell
 Tandem Cells for Higher Efficiency
Tandem solar cells, which stack multiple sub-cells with
 Floating Solar Power Plants
different band gaps, offer a solution to two major efficiency
Floating solar systems, or "floatovoltaics," are solar
losses: sub-band gap transmission and thermalization. These
panels installed on bodies of water such as reservoirs and
cells have the potential to surpass the efficiency limits of
lakes. Compared to land-based solar, floating solar offers
single-junction cells. Recent research has shown that tandem
advantages such as reduced land costs, improved panel
cells can achieve efficiencies of up to 42% with two sub-
efficiency due to water cooling, and the ability to generate
cells, and 49% with three sub-cells. Under concentrated
clean power in areas with limited land availability. The rapid
sunlight, these efficiencies can be even higher.
growth of floating solar farms is a key development in the
solar energy landscape.
 Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)
BIPV systems integrate photovoltaic modules into
building structures, serving as both power generators and
replacements for conventional building materials. These
systems reduce costs by eliminating the need for separate
mounting systems and improve energy efficiency by
producing power directly at the point of use. The potential for
BIPV systems to contribute to emissions reduction and
sustainable architecture is significant.

Fig 5 Floating Photovoltaic on an Irrigation Pond

XI. CONCLUSION

This paper highlights significant strides made in PV

materials, cell designs, and manufacturing processes, all
contributing to improved efficiency, affordability, and
Fig 3 BIPV System Diagram environmental friendliness of solar energy. Emerging
technologies, such as perovskite and tandem solar cells, show
 Perovskite Solar Cells promise in enhancing energy conversion efficiency, while
Perovskite solar cells, with their low manufacturing advanced manufacturing techniques like roll-to-roll printing
costs and high efficiency, are set to play a major role in and thin-film deposition have reduced production costs,
future solar technology. Their flexibility, lightness, and high broadening access to solar power.

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Energy storage solutions and smart grid integration are [6]. Sharma, H., Suthar, K., Meena, M., Sharma, T.,
also key developments, ensuring stable power supply and Arora, C., & Soni, A. Grid Connected Photovoltaic
optimized grid performance, addressing one of the critical System with MPPT System: A
challenges of renewable energy—variability in energy [7]. Arora, C., & Swarnkar, N. K. A review of Reactive
production. Furthermore, policies such as feed-in tariffs, net Power Compensation using Vehicle to Grid enabled
metering, and investment tax credits support the wider EV Battery Charger.
adoption of PV technology, encouraging more individuals [8]. Mr. Chirag Arora, Mr. Ravinder Singh Maan, Subhash
and businesses to transition to solar energy. Swami. (2020). “Harmonic Reduction in Output of
DFIG Based Wind Turbine Using Hybrid Active
Future research will focus on overcoming existing Filter”. International Journal of Advanced Science and
challenges, including improving the stability and scalability Technology, 29(9s), 8112-8122.
of perovskite cells, integrating AI for efficient energy
management, and exploring new applications such as
building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and floating solar
power plants. With these ongoing innovations and supportive
policies, PV technology is well-positioned to play a leading
role in the global shift toward sustainable energy, meeting the
increasing demand for clean energy and supporting a
sustainable energy future.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

We express our sincere gratitude to Mr. Subhash

Chander Swami, Assistant Professor and Head of the
Department of Electrical Engineering at AIETM, and Mr.
Ravi Ucheniya, Assistant Professor at AIETM, for their
valuable insights and constructive feedback during the
development of this review paper. We also appreciate the
support and guidance provided by Arya Institute of
Engineering Technology and Management, which has been
instrumental in improving the content and overall quality of
this work.

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