Metallization is a key step in manufacturing of efficient and reliable solar cells. Written by world-wide renowned experts, this work covers metallization technologies, before describing ongoing R&D activities for the most relevant silicon solar cells metallization technologies. Later chapters deal with aspects of solar cell modules.

The most comprehensive, authoritative and widely cited reference on photovoltaic solar energy Fully revised and updated, the Handbook of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Second Edition incorporates the substantial technological advances and research developments in photovoltaics since its previous release. All topics relating to the photovoltaic (PV) industry are discussed with contributions by distinguished international experts in the field. Significant new coverage includes: three completely new chapters and six chapters with new authors device structures, processing, and manufacturing options for the three major thin film PV technologies high performance approaches for multijunction, concentrator, and space applications new types of organic polymer and dye-sensitized solar cells economic analysis of various policy options to stimulate PV growth including effect of public and private investment Detailed treatment covers: scientific basis of the photovoltaic effect and solar cell operation the production of solar silicon and of silicon-based solar cells and modules how choice of semiconductor materials and their production influence costs and performance making measurements on solar cells and modules and how to relate results under standardised test conditions to real outdoor performance photovoltaic system installation and operation of components such as inverters and batteries. architectural applications of building-integrated PV Each chapter is structured to be partially accessible to beginners while providing detailed information of the physics and technology for experts. Encompassing a review of past work and the fundamentals in solar electric science, this is a leading reference and invaluable resource for all practitioners, consultants, researchers and students in the PV industry.

Novel concepts for crystalline silicon solar cells promise higher energy conversion efficiencies. In order to take one more step towards fulfilling this promise, the present dissertation focuses on new and adapted methods for the inline-characterization, and on optical and electrical simulations of these devices. Three novel concepts are covered: the passivated emitter and rear cell, the selective emitter and the metal wrap through concept