Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) is making plans to revolutionize the solar energy industry by deploying approximately 20 GW of new PV systems based on perovskite solar cell technology by 2040. In a bid to support domestic manufacturers, the ministry aims to establish a thriving perovskite solar module industry within the country, catching up to the efforts made by European and Chinese companies in this field.
One of the main advantages of perovskite solar panels is their light weight and flexibility, making them suitable for installation in locations where conventional modules may not be feasible. The government recognizes their potential and plans to collaborate with both the public and private sectors to establish mass production and generate demand for these innovative solar modules.
METI aims to avoid past mistakes of losing competitiveness through technology leakage by leveraging the unique characteristics of film-type perovskite solar cells. The expertise in material processing and manufacturing processes will be crucial for maintaining and enhancing Japan’s competitiveness in the global solar market.
As for cost reduction, the ministry envisions significant progress in the coming years. It expects perovskite solar modules to be produced at a cost of JPY 20/W by 2025, JPY 14/W by 2030, and JPY 10/W by 2040. This projected decline in costs will contribute to a virtuous cycle of expanded demand and further cost reduction, making perovskite solar modules more accessible and commercially viable.
With these ambitious plans for the deployment and production of perovskite solar technology, Japan is envisioning a future where solar energy becomes more efficient, affordable, and sustainable. This move has the potential to reshape the global solar industry and accelerate the transition toward renewable energy sources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the Article:
1. What is Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) planning to do in the solar energy industry?
– METI plans to deploy approximately 20 GW of new PV systems based on perovskite solar cell technology by 2040.
2. Why is the government supporting the development of perovskite solar modules?
– Perovskite solar panels have advantages such as being light weight and flexible, making them suitable for installation in unconventional locations where conventional modules may not be feasible.
3. What is METI’s strategy to support the domestic manufacturers of perovskite solar modules?
– METI plans to collaborate with both the public and private sectors to establish mass production and generate demand for these innovative solar modules.
4. How does METI plan to avoid losing competitiveness through technology leakage?
– METI aims to leverage the unique characteristics of film-type perovskite solar cells, focusing on expertise in material processing and manufacturing processes, to maintain and enhance Japan’s competitiveness in the global solar market.
5. What are METI’s expectations regarding the cost of perovskite solar modules in the future?
– METI expects perovskite solar modules to cost JPY 20/W by 2025, JPY 14/W by 2030, and JPY 10/W by 2040.
6. How will the projected decline in costs impact the market for perovskite solar modules?
– The decline in costs is expected to contribute to a virtuous cycle of expanded demand and further cost reduction, making perovskite solar modules more accessible and commercially viable.
Key Terms and Definitions:
– Perovskite solar cells: Solar cells that use a compound with the crystal structure of perovskite, which has gained attention for its high-efficiency potential and versatility.
– PV systems: Photovoltaic systems that convert sunlight into electricity using solar panels.
– Material processing: The manipulation and treatment of materials to modify their properties for specific applications.
– Competitiveness: The ability to effectively compete with others in terms of price, quality, innovation, etc.
Suggested Related Links:
– Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI)
– Renewable Energy World
– International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)