The Role of Organic Solar Cells in U.S. Energy Transition: Technical Advances, Deployment Challenges, and Policy Pathways

Organic solar cells (OSCs) have shed their “lab curiosity” label as efficiencies near 19% and module lifetimes approach a decade. This hybrid scoping–narrative review examines OSCs’ role in achieving U.S. goals of a carbon-free grid by 2035 and net-zero emissions by 2050. We analyzed 80 peer-reviewed studies, government reports, and field trials (2015–2025), grouping insights into technical advances, deployment experience, policy frameworks, and equity considerations. Three themes emerge: Materials & Performance, where non-fullerene acceptors and tandem designs halve the gap with silicon and boost stability; Deployment Realities, demonstrated by façade films in Germany, transparent solar windows in California, and pilot roll-to-roll lines, alongside scale-up, certification, and bankability hurdles; and Policy & Equity Gaps, revealing incentives skewed toward silicon yet highlighting OSCs’ low-toxicity materials and architectural flexibility for energy justice. We recommend federal support for pilot manufacturing, accelerated standards, and equity-focused demonstrations in schools, affordable housing, and community centers. With coordinated R&D, policy, and community engagement, OSCs can evolve from niche novelty to a complementary layer of America’s solar portfolio.