Most efficient thin film solar panel

Solar cells have come a long way in recent years but inexpensive thin film solar cells are still far less efficient than expensive crystalline solar cells (like seen in solar farms). However, a team of researchers from Penn State University, USA, have developed a panel using two thin films of different materials with a combined efficiency of 34% - much greater than the 21% achieved by conventional thin film panels. When productionised, this technology could pave the way for much more affordable solar power technology and impact the design of all electrically-dependant devices. Being able to bend and form a thin film solar panels offers obvious benefits in charging electrical vehicles, where panels can be mounted to the vehicle body to help charge batteries.