A 'perovskite-type' battery invented by Japanese researchers and described as the 'best candidate' for the next generation of solar cells is expected to be put into commercial use in Japan, the Nikkei reported. European and Chinese companies are early starters, but Water Chemicals and Japanese companies such as Toshiba also plan to start mass production by 2025. By utilizing Japanese material technology, the company aims to overcome the problems of durability and frequency conversion, which were once considered as weaknesses of solar cells, with half the cost of traditional batteries.

The perovskite-type solar cell was invented in 2009 by Takeshi Miyazaka, a distinguished professor at Yokohama University. Miyasaka's battery is cheap to make, lightweight and bendable. This allows it to be used in previously difficult locations such as building facades and electric vehicle roofs.

Some Japanese companies are planning to mass-produce perovskite solar cells. We asked Professor Takashi Miyasaka, the inventor of the battery, if they can compete with the European and Chinese companies that are taking the lead.

Professor Miyasaka says Japanese companies have strong technology. In particular, it is excellent in sealing technology and electrode embedding technology to prevent moisture from the material.

But Professor Miyasaka also says Chinese and European companies are already ahead in mass production. In addition, many companies come to Professor Miyasaka to discuss cooperation. Most of the employees from Japanese companies are ordinary employees who have no decision-making power, while those from overseas companies are all management, so there is a significant gap in decision-making speed.

Prof Miyasaka believes start-ups need not develop technology from scratch. We can first disassemble and analyze the products of overseas companies, imitate the mass production techniques of others, and at the same time use the basic science of Japan to improve product quality and cut costs. China used to learn Japanese technology, this time Japan must make up its mind to learn from China.