Japan’s Sekisui Chemical Targets 2027 for Mass Production of Perovskite Solar Cells

Japan's Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd. (4204.T) announced on December 25 its plan to begin mass production of next-generation perovskite solar cells (PSCs) in 2027. PSCs, known for their lightweight and flexible properties, are regarded by scientists as a low-cost alternative to silicon cells, with the potential to reduce space requirements for solar panels.

Sekisui Chemical is collaborating with the Development Bank of Japan (DBJ) to establish a new company in early January. This company will handle the design, manufacturing, and sales of PSCs under a Sekisui Chemical license. The project’s total cost is expected to exceed 310 billion yen ($1.97 billion), with half funded through government subsidies.

Sekisui Chemical plans a phased investment strategy, initially investing 90 billion yen to build a 100-megawatt production line by 2027, followed by a gigawatt-scale production line by 2030. The company aims to capitalize on the lightweight and flexible features of PSCs, targeting public sector applications, such as gymnasiums serving as evacuation centers during disasters.

Additionally, Sekisui Chemical plans to lower costs through mass production, expand its business scale, and drive demand for PSCs in private sector facilities, such as factory and warehouse rooftops and walls. The new company will acquire and utilize Sharp's equipment and intends to open a new facility in Sakai City, western Japan. Sekisui Chemical will hold 86% ownership of the company.

Meanwhile, the Japanese government finalized a draft Basic Energy Policy on Wednesday, aiming to increase renewable energy’s share in the power mix to 50% by fiscal 2040, promoting clean energy development while meeting rising power demands.