The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE has installed 70 photovoltaic modules on the outer façade of one of its lab buildings. The modules were developed and produced by the Institute and demonstrate the interplay of different technologies. Together with industry, Fraunhofer ISE developed a crystalline PV module called “TPedge” using a process that saves both time and money and replaces the lamination step. Innovative back-contacted solar cells from the Institute’s own production are integrated into the module. When the energy-efficient lab building was inaugurated in 2013, a few of the PV modules were installed on the façade for test purposes. Now the solar façade is complete and all 70 modules are in operation.
Solar Cells
The crystalline PV modules are based on an innovative solar cell technology using back contacts. This so-called “High Performance Metal Wrap Through” (HIP-MWT) concept was developed and patented by Fraunhofer ISE. The solar cells were developed in a near-industry process and produced in small-scale production at the Photovoltaic Technology Evaluation Center (PV-TEC) of Fraunhofer ISE. “By using our fully automated production facilities, e. g. an innovative laser system for creating vias in silicon wafers, we were able to demonstrate industrial cycle times,” says Dr. Florian Clement, Group Head of MWT Solar Cells and Printing Technology. HIP-MWT solar cells with rear side passivation reach efficiencies of up to 20.5 percent.
