Solar technology has come a long way since New York inventor Charles Fritts created the first solar cell in 1883.

His device wasn’t very efficient – it was only capable of turning a tiny amount of the sunshine it absorbed into electricity, about 1% to 2%. Today’s solar cells – which are typically silicon-based – can convert an average of around 22% of the sunshine they absorb into power. More efficient solar cells mean each solar panel can generate more electricity, saving on materials and the land needed.

Manufacturing silicon solar cells is also an energy-intensive process. Experts warn that renewable power capacity must triple by 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5°C, and solar is predicted to play a major role, so the industry is racing to increase the efficiency of its technology.