First Graphene has reached a commercial agreement with Halocell Energy to supply graphene for the production of perovskite solar cells, a move expected to boost Australia’s renewable energy capabilities.
The two-year deal involves First Graphene’s PureGRAPH technology, a graphene formulation known for enhancing material performance.
According to the agreement, the New South Wales-based Halocell Energy will integrate PureGRAPH as a high-performing coating for its perovskite solar cells.
“This landmark agreement with Halocell Energy is a significant milestone for First Graphene as we officially enter the commercial perovskite solar cell industry,” said First Graphene Managing Director and CEO Michael Bell.
“These locally manufactured products will change the way Australians leverage solar power in their home and improve Australia’s renewable energy performance as a whole.”
The first perovskite solar modules enhanced with graphene are expected to be released later this month, aimed at replacing disposable batteries for small electronic goods.
These advanced solar cells are up to five times more efficient than conventional silicon cells and are also more cost-effective.
Halocell Energy reports that by using graphene, manufacturing costs can be reduced by over 80 per cent, as the need for expensive conductor materials like gold and silver is eliminated.
“This partnership not only strengthens our position as a leading innovator in the solar cell market but also aligns with our commitment to supporting domestic suppliers,” said Halocell Energy CEO Paul Moonie.
“The integration of these locally supplied materials into our roll-to-roll production process enables cost-effective, rapid manufacturing, which will be a gamechanger for the solar industry in Australia.”
The roll-to-roll production technique, which is being developed in collaboration with Queensland University of Technology, allows for the scalable and low-cost creation of perovskite solar cells.
This project recently received AUD 2 million in funding from the Australian Government to explore further commercialisation of the technology.
Bell added, “Importantly, this agreement will open the door further for First Graphene to showcase the benefits of leveraging the unique properties of graphene to improve renewable energy technology. We are excited to embark on this venture with Halocell Energy and look forward to delivering the benefits of our PureGRAPH® products to energy consumers across the country.”
