Author(s)

XiYuan Zhang^*, XiZhi Zhang

Affiliation(s)

Portola High School, Irvine 92618, Orange County, U.S.A.

Corresponding Author

XiYuan Zhang

ABSTRACT

This paper reviews the evolution of photovoltaic (PV) technologies, beginning with the commercialization of first- and second-generation PV technologies. Introducing their characteristics, market share, and current limitations, respectively. Then, bring in the main focus of the paper — the third generation PV technologies — copper zinc tin sulfide, perovskite solar cells, organic photovoltaics, quantum dot solar cells, and dye sensitized solar cells — were analyzed in terms of their characteristics, design, power conversion efficiency, and scalability. The analysis underscores the importance of current third-generation PV technologies innovation, highlighting the strong potential of third-generation PV technology to overcome the technology bottleneck of first and second-generation PV technologies and establish a solid ground for assuming a leading role in the global sustainable energy market. 

KEYWORDS

Copper zinc tin sulfide; Perovskite solar cells; Organic photovoltaics; Quantum dot solar cells; Dye sensitized solar cells; Photovoltaic technologies

CITE THIS PAPER

XiYuan Zhang, XiZhi Zhang. The next generation of Photovoltaics: a comprehensive review of emerging materials, prospects, and challenges. World Journal of Mathematics and Physics. 2025, 3(1): 43-50. DOI: https://doi.org/10.61784/wjmp3016.

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