Periodic Reporting for period 1 - EpiSil-IBC (Epitaxial silicon foil solar cells with interdigitated back contacts)
Période du rapport: 2015-11-01 au 2017-10-31
Such new device concepts directly contribute to the competitiveness of low-carbon energy production and therefore support the EU’s climate and energy goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% below 1990 levels by 2020 and provide 20% of EU energy from renewable sources. The advantage of the epitaxial growth is that it can directly grow crystalline material from the precursor gas which has the potential to produce cheaper and higher quality wafers and foils, providing new market opportunities for European companies and making the transition to low-carbon society economically even more stimulating.
The aim of this proposal is to realize a solar cell based on ultra-thin (<50 μm) silicon foils bonded to glass and with all contacts on the back side of the cell. The goal of this innovative solar cell is to surpass the current state-of-the art efficiencies of thin silicon foil solar cells by using low-cost and high yield processing.
Additionally the simulation models developed for the epifoil solar cell were adapted to explore advanced topics such as epitaxially grown emitters for nPERT solar cells, combinations with tandem solar cells and selective contacts.
In parallel to the research work, the training of the researcher took place. The researcher was given a series trainings provided by senior scientists, which enabled him independent access to the required equipment.
The results of the project include a filled European patent application, publication of four journal papers and several presentations at photovoltaic conferences and workshops.
Realizing the positive and negative polarity contacts on the rear side of the solar cell adds to device and processing complexity. To address this issue we improve a patterning process based on laser ablation. Our innovative idea (patent application filled) uses a distributed Bragg reflector that prevents damaging the surface passivation layers of the solar cell, resulting in better device quality.
As mentioned before the new device concept facilitates the transition to low-carbon society support the EU’s climate and energy goals and provides new market opportunities for European companies.