Pilot production of thin-film crystalline silicon on glass modules

Abstract

Photovoltaic modules using crystalline silicon on glass technology combine the low manufacturing cost of thin films with the established strengths of crystalline silicon. The development of this technology has progressed steadily at Pacific Solar, such that it is already approaching readiness for large-scale manufacturing. The efficiency of the pilot-line modules is now comparable with other thin-film photovoltaic technologies and, importantly, these modules have demonstrated remarkably high yield and stability, properties essential for low-cost manufacturing and market acceptance. This paper presents the results of four years of pilot production of crystalline silicon on glass modules at Pacific Solar, including the first public presentation of data on efficiency, yield, outdoor exposure testing, and manufacturing cost.