American solar panel manufacturer First Solar is transitioning to a technology that could usher in a new era in solar energy. The company has signed a long-term supply agreement with nanotechnology firm UbiQD to integrate quantum dot technology into thin-film solar panels.

Quantum dot technology to be offered for solar panels

This integration of quantum dots, which have been used only in limited laboratory and high-end display technologies, into the energy sector at this scale represents a first for commercial-scale solar energy technologies.

The collaboration between First Solar and UbiQD continues joint research and development efforts that began in 2023. Under the new agreement, UbiQD is expected to produce up to 100 metric tons of quantum dots annually.

The company’s technology is the result of research from Los Alamos National Laboratory and MIT. The quantum dots are integrated into the encapsulation layer of the panels, and these nanometer-sized particles direct sunlight more efficiently, increasing absorption rates.

Quantum dots are semiconductor particles with photoluminescent properties. These particles capture specific wavelengths of light, allowing panels to perform in spectrums where they were previously inefficient. It’s possible to cover the width of a fingernail with approximately 100,000 quantum dots.

Despite their small size, when integrated into panels, they significantly increase light absorption. Especially in bifacial panels, this structure, which can collect sunlight from both the front and back surfaces, can double efficiency.

This development is critical for countries seeking to accelerate the energy transition and for large-scale solar projects. In grid-scale energy production, even a small increase in efficiency can significantly impact overall energy costs.

Therefore, the widespread commercialization of quantum dot technology could represent a significant turning point for the industry, not only technologically but also economically. What are your thoughts on this? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.