Kesterite solar cells break efficiency ceiling after decade-long stall
By 
James Mitchell Crow2025-09-16T09:28:00
Once-promising kesterite solar technology has finally broken through its efficiency ceiling, jumping from a decade-long stall at 12.6% to nearly 17% in just three years – putting commercial viability within reach.
After years in the shadows, a humble mineral called kesterite is making a comeback in solar research. With its earth-abundant, non-toxic composition and newfound efficiency gains, scientists believe it could finally bring thin-film solar into the mainstream. This article explores the breakthroughs, challenges, and future potential of kesterite photovoltaics – and why the solar world is paying attention again.