  Solar energy is anticipated to be the most viable source of sustainable green
energy. Perovskites have gained significant research attention in recent years
as a solar energy harvesting material due to their desirable photovoltaic
enabling properties. The potential strategies for a more effective use of these
materials can involve multiple energy conversion mechanisms through a single
device or employing materials where a solar or thermal input provides multiple
electrical outputs to enhance the overall energy harvesting capability. In this
context, the present review focuses on perovskites, including both organic
halide perovskites and inorganic oxide perovskites, due to their proven
properties as photovoltaic materials and their intriguing potential for
additional functionality, such as ferroelectricity. Ferroelectrics are a
special class of perovskites that have been studied in detail for photoferroic,
pyroelectric and thermoelectric effects and energy storage, which we briefly
review here. Furthermore, the possibilities of simultaneously tuning these
mechanisms in perovskite materials for multiple energy conversion mechanisms
and storage for ultra-high density capacitor and battery applications is also
examined in order to attain a better understanding and to present novel
opportunities. An understanding of all these mechanisms and device prospects
will inspire and inform the selection of appropriate materials and potential
novel designs so that the available solar and thermal resource could be
utilized in a more effective manner. This review will not only help in
selecting an appropriate material from the existing pool of perovskite
materials, but will also provide an outlook and assistance to researchers in
developing new material systems.
