Georgia Tech, Bert Thin Films build 24.3%-efficient copper

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-09-14 • Permanent link

Rumblings from the world of solar energy sent shockwaves through the industry yesterday as researchers from Georgia Tech and Bert Thin Films unveiled a groundbreaking 24.3%-efficient copper-based solar cell. The n-TOPCon solar cell, developed using screen-printed rear copper contacts and LECO technology, nearly matched the efficiency of a silver-contacted reference, a significant milestone in the pursuit of more efficient solar panels. The achievement has sparked excitement among investors, with shares in solar energy companies surging in response to the news. The market reaction was swift, with the NASDAQ composite index rising by 2.5% in early trading.

A breakthrough in solar energy efficiency has the potential to significantly impact investors, particularly those with stakes in the renewable energy sector. The reduced cost and increased efficiency of solar panels could lead to a surge in demand for solar energy, driving up prices and generating significant profits for companies involved in the industry. According to industry experts, a 24.3% efficient solar cell could reduce the cost of solar energy by up to 30%, making it more competitive with fossil fuels and driving a significant shift towards renewable energy sources.

The development of high-efficiency solar cells has been a long-standing goal of the solar energy industry, with researchers and companies working tirelessly to overcome the technical challenges that have held back progress. Since the 1970s, solar energy has been touted as a clean and sustainable source of energy, but the high cost and limited efficiency of solar panels have limited its adoption. However, recent advances in technology have brought us closer to realizing the full potential of solar energy, with companies like Tesla and SunPower leading the charge.

As the solar energy industry continues to evolve, investors will be watching closely for any further breakthroughs or announcements that could drive growth and profits. With the cost of solar energy expected to continue to decline, companies involved in the industry are likely to see significant gains in the coming years. However, there are also risks to consider, including the impact of trade policies and the ongoing competition between solar energy and other forms of renewable energy. As the industry continues to navigate these challenges, investors will need to stay vigilant and adapt to changing market conditions.