A team of University of Texas at Dallas researchers has discovered a “recipe” to increase the efficiency of solar cells made from organic materials. Most organic solar cells, however, are not as efficient as those made with silicon for reasons that are not well understood. Early versions of organic solar cells, which were made of 50% donor and 50% acceptor materials, have drawbacks. Hsu has conducted extensive research into solar energy, including on solar cells made from another material called halide perovskite. Using computer simulations, the team discovered that they could make organic solar cells more efficient if they changed the shape of the donor material, or “chocolate,” from chips to strands.