Core Viewpoint - The research team from Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications has successfully developed a large-area "copper zinc tin sulfur selenium" photovoltaic film with a power conversion efficiency of 10.1%, indicating the industrialization potential of inorganic flexible photovoltaic materials [1][5]. Group 1: Research Background - The first generation of photovoltaic materials, crystalline silicon, is rigid, while current research focuses on making photovoltaic materials flexible and lightweight, even capable of being sewn into clothing [1]. - New generation photovoltaic materials like perovskite can be made into thin films but suffer from instability in performance. In this context, the second generation material "copper indium gallium selenide" has regained attention from researchers [2]. Group 2: Development Process - Due to low yield rates and high costs of indium and gallium, the research team replaced these elements with zinc and tin, using a solution method instead of traditional vacuum methods to create a 0.1 cm² "copper zinc tin sulfur selenium" photovoltaic film with a power conversion efficiency of 13% [2]. - The team discovered that as the film area increased beyond 10 cm², the power conversion efficiency significantly decreased due to the premature formation of a dense crystalline layer on the film's surface, blocking selenium infiltration [2]. - After over four years of research, the team optimized the solution formulation to enhance the film's porosity and structure, allowing for better selenium penetration and resulting in a photovoltaic component with an effective area of 10.48 cm² [2]. Group 3: Testing and Implications - The photovoltaic component was tested by an international authority, achieving a power conversion efficiency of 10.1%, and was officially included in the international "Solar Cell Efficiency Table" [5]. - The advantages of the "copper zinc tin sulfur selenium" technology route include abundant raw material reserves, non-toxicity, and low costs, marking a significant step towards the theoretical and practical feasibility of industrializing inorganic flexible photovoltaic materials [5].

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The photovoltaic (PV) industry is entering the mid-to-late growth phase, facing challenges such as accelerated installation capacity and expansion into new power application areas. The exit of some manufacturers indicates a market bottom, with potential measures to facilitate market clearing in the future [1][3] - Demand in the PV industry is currently softening, leading to price pressures. However, this short-term downturn is expected to lay the groundwork for long-term development [7] Technological Advancements - New technologies are the core driving force in the PV and energy storage sectors. For instance, the efficiency of BC (Bifacial Cell) modules has reached 25%, marking a new era for products and allowing leading companies to enjoy upward cycles [4][5] - The storage sector is currently the hottest area, with local supporting policies expected to be introduced in the third quarter, benefiting companies like DEYE, Sungrow, and Airo [6] Market Dynamics - In June, production across various segments of the PV industry, including silicon wafers, battery cells, and modules, saw a significant decline. There is a divergence in the production outlook for silicon materials, with market expectations being pessimistic [8] - The overseas market is witnessing an increase in local component production capacity, with U.S. tariff policies expected to change in the third quarter, impacting the equity situation of component manufacturers [9] Product Development Trends - Longi has introduced the concept of unit power, reflecting a shift in preferences towards higher power products to reduce costs. The market is increasingly favoring technologies like Topcon, BC, and heterojunction [10] - Companies are moving towards systemic solutions, enhancing product sales and ecological value, which is advantageous from a revenue perspective [10] Future Directions - The future direction of the PV industry includes the construction of new power systems and the promotion of market-oriented trading. Short-term focus will be on cost reduction technologies, while long-term attention will be on component technology advancements [11] - Companies that excel in cost reduction strategies, such as Bifacial Cell and innovative materials, are expected to perform better than the overall industry, even in a relatively weak demand environment [11]