26-05-2025
Electricity At Just Re 1/Unit? IIT-Bombay's Solar Breakthrough Could Slash Your Power Bills
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IIT Bombay has developed a new solar cell tech that boosts power output by 30% and may cut electricity costs to Re 1/unit. It is set for rollout by 2027
Rising electricity bills have become a universal concern, affecting households across all income levels. During summer, appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators drive up power consumption, while in winter, heating needs take their toll. Now, a revolutionary technology developed in India may offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution.
A Breakthrough In Solar Energy
Researchers at IIT Bombay have developed an advanced solar cell capable of generating 25–30% more electricity than conventional technologies. While standard solar panels typically convert around 20% of solar energy into electricity, this new technology can achieve up to 30% efficiency. Crucially, this also reduces electricity costs, potentially bringing them down from Rs 2.5 – Rs 4 per unit to just Re 1 per unit.
The Tandem Solar Cell Innovation
As reported by The Indian Express, this advancement is led by Professor Dinesh Kabra and his team at the National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education (NCPRE) at IIT Bombay. The team has developed a 'Tandem Solar Cell' that utilises Halide Perovskite in the top layer, known for its high light absorption, even in low light.
The bottom layer is composed of silicon, a material already widely used in the solar industry. This powerful combination results in significantly greater electricity output.
The Maharashtra government and IIT Bombay-backed startup ART-PV India Private Limited plan to bring the new solar cells to market by December 2027. All machinery and manufacturing will also be based in India. Professor Kabra, the scientist behind the innovation, also leads the startup overseeing the rollout.
The technology will not be limited to large solar farms. It can be installed on household rooftops, building façades, vehicles, and more, making solar adoption more accessible and efficient.
Furthermore, both IIT Bombay and the Maharashtra government aim to use this breakthrough to produce Green Hydrogen, a clean fuel vital to India's long-term energy goals. As India pushes towards renewable and self-reliant energy, innovations like IIT Bombay's tandem solar cell are poised to redefine how the nation generates and consumes power, making electricity more affordable, accessible, and sustainable.
First Published:
May 26, 2025, 13:39 IST
