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The Future of Solar Testing: MBJ Solutions Advances Tandem Module Measurement

Published in: Solar, Digital Blog

The Future of Solar Testing: MBJ Solutions Advances Tandem Module Measurement image

As global solar module prices continue to fall—now dropping below USD 0.10 per watt peak—pressure on European solar manufacturing intensifies. In this challenging economic environment, next-generation technologies such as perovskite and tandem solar cells offer a pathway toward competitive, high-efficiency renewable solutions.

To support this transition, MBJ Solutions has introduced the MBJ Sunlike Lab, a cutting-edge LED solar simulator designed for laboratory testing of new-generation modules. Its capabilities align with the complex demands of perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell development, offering precision, flexibility, and long-term reliability.

Why Perovskite and Tandem Cells Matter

  • Higher efficiency potential than conventional silicon cells
  • Lower manufacturing costs through low-temperature, energy-efficient processes
  • Tandem structure enables better light utilization across layers, increasing power output per unit area
  • Strategic advantage for Europe’s solar industry, improving cost competitiveness and technology leadership

Challenges to address:

  • Long-term stability of perovskite materials
  • Scalable, repeatable production techniques
  • Accurate, reproducible power measurements during development

The Measurement Challenge: Why Traditional Simulators Fall Short

Perovskite and tandem cells require a precisely controlled spectrum and continuous light exposure to stabilize and evaluate performance. Traditional xenon-based flash simulators present several limitations:

  • Short flash durations (up to 100 ms)
  • Inability to provide continuous light
  • Poor thermal management under sustained operation

Introducing the MBJ Sunlike Lab: Tailored for Perovskite and Tandem Modules

MBJ Solutions’ Sunlike Lab simulator leverages LED technology to meet the advanced testing needs of the new solar generation.

Key Technical Features

  • Pulse duration of 500 ms and continuous light mode for preconditioning
  • 32 individually adjustable LED channels per board for fine-tuned spectral control
  • Spectral match close to AM1.5G, achieving a spectral deviation (SPD) of just 11.9% and spectral coverage (SPC) of 100% (300–1200 nm)
  • Classification A+A+A+ in accordance with IEC 60904-9:2020
  • Thermal control system managing up to 20 kW of heat, ensuring LED temperature stability and spectrum integrity
  • Z-factor compliance within 1.00 ± 0.01, avoiding the need for spectral corrections—critical for tandem module accuracy
  • Excellent stability metrics:

Integrated Capabilities for Advanced Research

The Sunlike Lab goes beyond power measurement, offering:

  • Electroluminescence (EL) imaging with dual-filter cameras for independent evaluation of silicon and perovskite cells
  • Spectral responsivity (SR) measurement for sub-cell current derivation
  • Thermal chamber supporting module testing from 15 °C to 75 °C
  • Compatible with modules up to 2500 mm x 1400 mm

Compliance with Emerging Standards

The system is fully aligned with:

  • IEC 60904-1-1:2017 for multi-junction PV device testing
  • IEC 60904-9:2020 for simulator classification and spectral quality
  • Incorporates Z-factor methodology to ensure test accuracy for tandem devices

Supporting European Innovation in Solar

MBJ Solutions, supported by its LED technology subsidiary MBJ Imaging, continues to serve a growing base of customers with over 100 solar simulators already delivered. The Sunlike Lab represents the next step in supporting Europe’s competitiveness in solar technology R&D.

As perovskite-silicon tandem modules inch closer to commercial production, the MBJ Sunlike Lab provides the necessary infrastructure for:

  • Research institutions and labs working on next-gen modules
  • Module manufacturers aiming for high-efficiency product pipelines
  • Standards-compliant testing environments

Conclusion

MBJ Solutions’ Sunlike Lab provides a complete platform for the accurate testing and development of perovskite and tandem solar modules. Its near-perfect spectrum, stable performance, and integrated diagnostics position it as a vital tool in the next chapter of solar innovation.

🔗 Discover more: www.mbj-solutions.com/en

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