SP4 Cells

Solar cell manufacturing is a key issue in cost reduction strategies for photovoltaics. There are many different ways to tackle production costs per watt-peak of module power, and most of those relate in some way to cell manufacturing: enhancing cell efficiency, using thin and large silicon wafers, processing low-cost material, increasing process quality, yield and throughput, and implementing cell designs to allow for low-cost module assembly (such as back-contact schemes). CRYSTALCLEAR deals with each of these topics in SP4.

There are work packages on advanced cell concepts, on the high-efficiency potential of novel low-cost silicon materials, and on next generation cell options. In the latter package, amongst others, the possibilities of "photon management" are investigated. This is the shaping of the solar spectrum (by conversion of light) such that a better match with the sensitivity of crystalline silicon is obtained and higher efficiencies come within reach.

Advanced manufacturing technologies such as plasma processes and new in-line texturization will be further developed and evaluated. Industry will carefully accompany the work of involved institutes and universities to guarantee a fast technology transfer. An evaluation matrix for all concepts and processes including cost reduction calculations aids in effective focusing on the most promising technologies.
Dedicated production techniques, concepts and processes for very thin (<200 µm) and large (>200 x 200 mm2) wafers will also be developed.

The combined activities of SP4 and related SP's can lead to a decrease of production costs per watt peak of typically 50%.