Techno-economic comparison of silicon and perovskite photovoltaic panels

Document Type : Research article

Authors

1 arak university of technology

2 Electrical engineering Department, Arak University of Technology, Arak, Iran

10.61882/jgeri.2026.2088044.1107
Abstract
In recent years, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted significant attention as an emerging photovoltaic technology due to their high power conversion efficiency and potential for low-cost manufacturing. However, limited long-term stability and faster performance degradation compared to conventional silicon solar cells remain major challenges for their large-scale commercialization. In this study, a comprehensive technical–economic comparison between perovskite and silicon solar cells is presented, with particular emphasis on initial efficiency, annual degradation rate, and effective module lifetime. Energy yield modeling and economic assessment are carried out using a MATLAB-based simulation framework, incorporating key parameters such as solar irradiance, initial conversion efficiency, gradual performance degradation, and end-of-life conditions of the modules. The results indicate that perovskite solar cells can achieve higher energy production and superior economic performance during the early years of operation; however, due to their higher degradation rates, their long-term performance declines relative to silicon-based technologies. These findings demonstrate that the optimal choice of photovoltaic technology strongly depends on the investment time horizon and project objectives, and that perovskite solar cells can represent a competitive option for short-term or application-specific scenarios.

Keywords



Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 19 July 2026

  • Receive Date 04 May 2026
  • Revise Date 24 June 2026
  • Accept Date 19 July 2026
  • Publish Date 19 July 2026