One of the most efficient ways of reducing the costs of photovoltaic electricity is to increase the efficiency of the solar cells used. Particularly in the case of silicon solar cells, in which the silicon material accounts for a significant proportion of the costs, targeted improvements in solar cell manufacture can bring about major cost benefits.
In addition to enhance the prevailing standard screen printed cell and developing novel solar cell concepts , developing individual processes and implementing them in production facilities is vital to reducing costs in photovoltaics. Process development includes the combination of physical process conditions, such as temperature or pressure, and the materials used.

At Fraunhofer ISE, we can work on all stages of technology development from proof-of-concept, i.e. the initial successful laboratory implementation, to proof-of-feasibility of prototypes on our pilot line at PV-TEC . We can also support process
implementation right up to the point immediately prior to transfer to industrial production lines . If required, we can also carry out a technology evaluation to provide solid evidence for prioritizing alternative processes. Investigations at Fraunhofer ISE focus on the following fields of technology: