Core Insights - Chinese scientists have achieved a solar cell conversion efficiency of 27.81%, nearing the physical limit, certified by the German Hamelin Solar Research Institute [1][3] - The breakthrough technologies include photon multiplication and optimized wide-bandgap perovskite materials, enhancing light absorption efficiency by 15% and reducing voltage loss by 40% [3][4] Technological Advancements - Photon multiplication technology allows high-energy photons to split into multiple usable photons, significantly improving traditional silicon material efficiency [3] - The optimization of perovskite materials addresses phase separation issues, leading to reduced voltage losses in tandem solar cells [3] Economic Impact - Each 1% increase in efficiency translates to a 7% reduction in land use for solar power plants and a 5-7% decrease in cost per kilowatt-hour [4] - The new solar cells enable solar power to compete with coal power, with costs dropping below 0.15 yuan per kilowatt-hour in sunny regions [4] Environmental Implications - If global solar efficiency reaches over 25%, it could reduce carbon emissions by 1.2 billion tons by 2050, equivalent to shutting down 300 large coal-fired power plants [4] Industrialization Challenges - Despite promising lab results, the stability of mass production remains a challenge, with Chinese photovoltaic companies investing 3 billion yuan to establish a GW-level production line [5] - The first commercial components are expected to be released next year, with efficiency degradation controlled to within 0.5% annually at high temperatures [5] Future Outlook - The industry is aiming for a further efficiency increase to 30%, marking a new starting point in the solar energy revolution [5]