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Japan is now investing in perovskite panels in an effort to invest in domestic solar production and having a goal of net-zero by 2050. Production of these panels are made using iodine, rather than silicon, of which Japan has an abundance amount.

These perovskite panels and ultrathin and flexible, where typical properties can be a tenth of the weight of a traditional silicon solar cell and can be as thin as one millimeter thick. Ideally the vast implementation of perovskites, could allow Japan to have renewable energy cover up to 50% of electricity demand by 2040.

Continuous growth of these panels and their implementation are being invested in by companies such as Panasonic for window panes, a domed baseball stadium, and plastic manufacturing companies like Sekisui Chemical.

The downside to these perovskite panels? They contain toxic lead and for now have lower efficiencies and much lower lifespans than silicon solar cells.

If Japan is able to master the perovskite technology in the near future, we may see more and more flexible panels or even solar windows coming our way. Needless to say, this is not just an advancement for Japan, but an advancement for the world in making a brighter tomorrow for all.