Summary
The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) in Germany, in collaboration with Comax, has developed a groundbreaking technology for connecting high-efficiency MWT (Multi-Well Top) cells. This innovative approach offers significant cost advantages and minimal energy losses, making it a promising advancement in the solar industry.
Preface
In today’s highly competitive solar energy market, PV module manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to differentiate their products. The primary goal is to achieve the highest possible module efficiency at the lowest cost. While many companies promote various technical concepts and marketing strategies, most of these solutions fail to deliver real-world benefits. Many so-called "advanced" technologies prove to be more hype than substance when thoroughly examined. For instance, some technologies may reduce cell costs but do not translate into lower module costs. Others may improve cell efficiency, yet the final module performance remains unchanged. These gaps highlight the need for truly effective innovations that deliver measurable value from the cell to the end product.
The Difference Between Front-Contact and Back-Contact Cells
When examining various cell interconnection technologies, it becomes clear that front-contact cells face inherent limitations. One major challenge in connecting cells to modules is minimizing CTM (Cell-to-Module) losses. To achieve this, the cross-sectional area of the interconnecting ribbons must be increased. However, this leads to more shading on the front side of the cell, which negatively impacts performance. Using multi-strand wires instead of traditional ribbons helps mitigate this issue, but it doesn’t fully resolve the problem. Whether it's BSF, PERC, or HIT cells, all front-contact designs struggle with this trade-off.
Back-contact cells, on the other hand, offer a better solution. They allow for larger cross-sectional interconnects without causing any shadowing on the front surface. This makes them ideal for high-efficiency applications, as they can significantly reduce CTM losses while maintaining optimal light absorption.
A New Connection Technology
Comax, in partnership with the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems, has introduced a new interconnection method called HIP (High-Efficiency Interconnection) technology. This innovative approach combines the use of ribbons with an advanced cell interconnect technique. Independent certification bodies have confirmed the low CTM losses and high power output achieved by this technology.
One of the key advantages of HIP technology is its cost-effectiveness. It uses affordable materials and equipment, and can achieve CTM losses below 1%. At SNEC 2013 in Shanghai, Comax will showcase standard 60-cell modules built using this new connection method. During the exhibition, Comax and the Fraunhofer Institute will demonstrate the clear cost-per-watt benefits of the technology.
Another major advantage is that the production of high-performance MWT cells and HIP modules can be carried out on both existing and new production lines. The required technology, equipment, and materials are readily available. Compared to other emerging technologies, Comax’s solution requires minimal changes to current production processes and incurs little additional cost. This allows manufacturers to quickly adopt the technology and produce more efficient modules, giving them a competitive edge in the market.
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