PERC meets self-aligned selective emitter technologies based on inkjet printing and silver less plating

The project focus is set on the exploitation of selective emitter’s potential in passivated emitter and rear contact (PERC) silicon solar cells.
Compared to PERC solar cells with an homogeneous emitter, those with selective emitter predict a significant increase in conversion
efficiency of at least 1.0% absolute and, in consequence, would drastically increase the yield of PV systems, decrease the levelized cost of
electricity, and the total cost of ownership. Therefore, Fraunhofer ISE, Meyer Burger, RENA, and Sun Chemical mix together their
complementary competences in the fields of solar cell processing, machine engineering, and material synthesis in order to evaluate
self-aligned process techniques based on the steadily advancing inkjet and plating technology, whereby low Ag consumption is aimed at.
The techniques of interest will be applied, validated and demonstrated in the PV-TEC or comparable on pilot-line scale. The high innovation
of the addressed technologies, the potential of selective emitters in PERC solar cells also with regard to low-cost PV-manufacturing, as well
as the technology readiness level – which ranges between TRL4 and 6 – lead to the conclusion that the project’s outcome will provide a
competitive solar cell technology for the PV-market with a high potential of being quickly transferred into PV-fabs, which would be
connected to a high benefit for all involved European stake- and shareholders.