Cell interconnection without glueing or soldering for crystalline Si photovoltaic modules

Abstract

In order to maximize the power output of polycrystalline silicon PV-modules, in previous work we have already tested rectangular cells of 39 × 156 mm which are overlapped along the long sides. The low current density at the cell overlap allows interconnections which need neither soldering nor glueing, but use metallic strips inserted between the cells in the overlap region. The contact is established by the pressure applied to the module during lamination and is retained by the slightly bent cells in the solidified encapsulant. Here we report on the long term stability of different contact materials and contact cross sections applied in eight modules of the 240 W class monitored for up to 24 months of outdoor operation and in a variety of small 5-cell modules exposed to rapid ageing tests with up to 1000 thermal cycles. Cells with three different electrode designs were tested and the contact materials were Cu, Ag, SnPbAg and Sn. Focussing especially on series resistance, fill factor and peak power, it is found that Ag-coated contact strips perform equally well and have practically the same stability as soldered cell interconnections. Due to 70-90% savings in copper and simpler manufacturing the cost of PV-modules may thus be reduced further.

Minimizing the Carrier Collection Loss of the Neutral‐Color Transparent Crystalline‐silicon Solar Modules via Hybrid Electrode Design

“…[ 13–15 ] However, common tabbing ribbons (with millimeter‐scale width) are not applicable for the modularization of transparent solar cells, as they hinder visibility. [ 7,16,17 ] Therefore, it is vital to develop an alternative modularization method that is optimized for transparent solar cells to facilitate their practical applications. After optimizing a single transparent solar cell, the transport of carriers between the two solar cells exhibiting minimal electrical loss should be investigated during the modularization process.…”

Analytical Study of the Electrical Output Characteristics of c-Si Solar Cells by Cut and Shading Phenomena

“…The PV module, fabricated by cut c-Si solar cells is receiving much attention even though loss is caused by an increase in leakage current and contact resistance. However, most cut c-Si cell research has a paste and electrode structure and there is a lack of research on the electrical output of cut c-Si solar cells [6][7][8].…”