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.
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