SP5 Modules

The research and development efforts of the subprojects 1 to 4, ranging from silicon feedstock to finished cells, come together in SP5, which deals with the final "product" of CRYSTALCLEAR : the solar module.

The key overall goals of the project are expressed in module terms because these are directly relevant for cost reduction of photovoltaic systems and thereby for the generation cost of solar electricity.

SP5 aims at developing advanced module concepts and corresponding highly automated and fast module assembly technologies. These should of course be fully matched with the cells developed in SP4.

Important boundary conditions are excellent reliability and lifetime and an enhanced environmental quality. For instance, the materials used in module assembly and the module design have a major influence on the possibilities for reclaim and reuse of materials. A further aim is to obtain flexibility in design to allow tailoring modules to customers' needs.

Research in SP5 is specifically targetted at advanced cell interconnection schemes for large and thin wafers and for back-contact cells, at new module materials, and at "single shot" encapsulation as well as one-material concepts.

Results from SP5 should enable a reduction of the add-on costs for module manufacturing by more than 50%.