Flyer und Broschüren - Photovoltaik

The share of photovoltaics in global energy supply is increasing rapidly. The dynamic PV module market is driven by high cost pressure and short innovation cycles. A large number of cell manufacturers and material suppliers for backsheets, encapsulants and others offer increasingly efficient and competetive products. The assurance of module quality is becoming outstandingly important for investors and manufacturers.

Along with the massive cost reduction for solar cells, building integration of PV (BIPV) is becoming more and more attractive. On the other hand, solar electricity production on building skins is increasingly required in public tenders.

Electrically conductive adhesives (ECA) have become an important alternative to solder joints for the interconnection of heterojunction solar cells (HJT) as well as for shingle interconnection in industrial production.

In shingle modules rectangular cells are connected by edge overlap, an arrangement similar to roof tiles. The power output of shingle modules is increased by significantly enhancing the active cell area within the module decreasing shading and soiling losses, reducing interconnection losses.

The generation of PV electricity depends on the sun’s position and the weather. In energy meteorology, Fraunhofer ISE develops algorithms to predict PV power for forecast horizons from a few minutes to several days. In order to support a reliable and costeffective power supply, PV power prediction is becoming increasingly important for solar energy trading, management of grid stability, reduction of grid integration cost for PV power.

Bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules are able to utilize light from both sides and can therefore signifi cantly increase the electric yield of PV power plants. The yield gain compared to monofacial modules is mainly determined by the conversion efficiency for solar irradiance incident on the rear side of a bifacial PV module, and the amount and quality of solar irradiance incident on the rear side.

The professional quality assurance services of Fraunhofer ISE have been contributing to high performance and optimal yields of PV power plants for more than 30 years. Real world experience highlights the importance of system design, proper planning, engineering, component selection and construction work for successful PV systems. Thus, comprehensive quality assurance for PV power plants covers all phases of the completion process from the planning to system operation and maintenance.

Multiple factors affect the reliability and long-term performance of photovoltaic modules. The quality and characteristics of the used materials, the interaction of the components, the manufacturing process and, of course, the local climate at the operating site play a significant role. 

At Fraunhofer ISE we use high-resolution analytical methods to assess degradation indicators and mechanisms. These methods serve as powerful tools that  complement the current-voltage (IV) measurements.

Fraunhofer ISE offers a comprehensive range of services for product development and material qualification in the field of module technology. With many years of experience, excellently trained staff and well-equipped laboratories, we turn innovative ideas into new approaches for reliable, efficient and competitive PV modules. We assist our clients in improving the quality and efficiency of existing module and interconnection concepts. At all times we make use of the vast research network available along the entire PV value chain at Fraunhofer ISE.

Colored PV modules strongly support the acceptance and attractivity of building integrated PV (BIPV). Especially architects and building planners desire an individual color choice, saturated colors, a homogeneous appearance for all possible viewing angles and at the same time a high module efficiency. The demand grows rapidly – builders from around the world increasingly ask for self-sufficiency of their buildings.

Photovoltaics have become an important pillar in the global energy supply. Recently, the application of PV technology has especially gained importance in countries with challenging climates, e.g. in the Middle East and North Africa. Due to the constant cost pressure on PV module production, standardized quality assurance remains crucial to ensure safe and reliable products.

High performing PV power plants are key to your return on investment. We offer monitoring services, which include immediate reporting of deviations from the expected performance.

In our accredited calibration laboratory CalLab PV Modules, we combine comprehensive scientific know-how with modern measurement technology. Among our  clients are renowned module manufacturers, EPCs (engineering, procurement, construction) and investors with the highest demands on quality. Many years of experience and our excellent reputation in the field of PV module calibration and performance testing ensure reliable measurement results.

Reference cells produced by Fraunhofer ISE are cutting-edge equipment for manufacturers of PV modules, laboratories and EPC contractors (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) worldwide.

The initial phases of a photovoltaic power plant project are very important for its success. We offer professional quality assurance services for project development and engineering.

Organic Photovoltaics (OPV) is an emerging technology that employs organic semiconductors such as polymers and oligomers to convert light into electrical energy. Due to the extremely low material consumption, no heavy metal use and low temperature processing, the environmental impact of this technology is exceptionally low and energy payback times are only a few months. Further advantages are low weight and ultimate flexibility. All materials can be coated and printed with high throughput production methods at low costs allowing solar cells designed in nearly arbitrary shapes. Moreover the absorption spectrum can be tailored so that different colors can be realized; even neutrally tinted semitransparent windows are possible.

The integration of solar cells into photovoltaic modules results in gains and losses that change the power and efficiency of the module in comparison to the initial solar cells. With SmartCalc.CTM Fraunhofer ISE provides a professional software solution to optimize solar modules and to analyze cellto-module (CTM) gain and loss factors.

The ProConCVD (Production Continuous Chemical Vapor Deposition Reactor) developed by Fraunhofer ISE produces highquality crystalline silicon layers. The process costs are approximately 10 times lower than common practice and the throughput is 100 times faster than in existing silicon epitaxy reactors.With this newly developed Chemical Vapor Deposition reactor, it is now possible to produce solar cells combining the best of microelectronic, thin-film and crystalline silicon solar cell technology.

Crystalline silicon thin-film (c-SiTF) solar cells present a promising concept to combine the advantages of conventional wafer-based silicon solar cells with those of thin-film solar cells: high and stable efficiencies and low production costs. In our approach, the electrically active base of the solar cell with a thickness of a few tens of micrometers is grown upon a substrate material, which gives the necessary mechanical stability.

SIMTEC is our Silicon Material Technology research center at Fraunhofer ISE. It focuses on the front end processes of the solar value chain. Starting with various sources of silicon feedstock, it involves multicrystalline block crystallization, block shaping, wafering and – as a new technology in PV – silicon epitaxy for crystalline silicon thin-film wafer equivalents.

The Fraunhofer ISE and Fraunhofer CSP Silicon Crystallization Platform provides a technology platform for industry-relevant crystallization processes, using productionscale equipment and process knowledge which is state-of-the-art and beyond. The Fraunhofer ISE and Fraunhofer CSP Silicon Crystallization Platform focuses on the optimization of crystal properties, the reduction of process costs and the further automation of the crystallization process.

Fraunhofer ISE has long time experience in developing highest performance solar cells made from III-V compound semiconductors. We use materials made from the 3rd and 5th column  of the periodic table such as GaAs or GaInP to develop multi-junction devices. Our solar cells reach record efficiencies up to 46.0 % under sunlight concentrated 508 times. We offer  industry and research partners comprehensive services to enhance their products.

Bei bauwerksintegrierter Photovoltaik (BIPV) handelt es sich um Bauelemente, die zusätzlich zu ihrer bautechnischen Anwendung Elektrizität generieren. Über die gesamte Anwendungsdauer gesehen sind sie in manchen Fällen sogar günstiger als herkömmliche Bauelemente. Außerdem tragen sie zur Erreichung der nationalen und europäischen Klimaschutzziele bei.

In the past few years, Potential Induced Degradation (PID) has been recognized as a failure mechanism that can cause substantial power loss in different PV module types and decrease the power plant performance ratio. In some cases, corrosive PID also becomes visible in module appearance.

The precise measurement of solar cells and modules is of crucial importance in solar technology. As one of the world’s leading laboratories, CalLab PV Cells, the photovoltaic calibration laboratory at Fraunhofer ISE, provides comprehensive measurement services in this field since 30 years.

Aiming at steadily reducing the levelized cost of electricity of PV plants, state-ofthe- art research and development in silicon photovoltaics must focus on material quality: This relates to feedstock quality, to the impact of the crystallization and wafering processes, and to the impact of the individual solar cell process on material quality. Such focus on material quality calls for accurate analysis techniques of efficiency-limiting electrical characteristics in all stages of solar cell production – ranging from crystallization to metalization.

Für die kosteneffiziente Fertigung von Solarzellen ist es wichtig, Zellen mit hohen Wirkungsgraden bei hoher Prozessstabilität und mit geringer Streuung zu produzieren. Entscheidend hierfür ist nicht nur die Güte der Fertigungsprozesse, sondern auch die elektrische und mechanische Qualität der verwendeten Wafer.

Device-integrated photovoltaics are an effective solution for small and grid-independent applications. Power generating solar cells provide a reliable, cost effective and flexible source of electrical energy for a wide range of consumers.

The technological work is accompanied by comprehensive analysis and qualification of silicon materials and solar cells which enable efficiency-limiting mechanisms to be identified and material, processes and cell concepts to be systematically improved. Using a large variety of state-of-theart offline and inline metrology systems, we are able to measure all relevant quality parameters on starting wafers, solar cell precursors and finished solar cells on a statistically relevant basis. Metrology systems with high spatial resolution allow loss mechanisms of cells to be analyzed in depth. A well-equipped wet-chemistry analysis laboratory allows inlinemonitoring of chemical baths.

PV power plants have become a competitive option for electricity generation in many regions with high solar irradiation levels like the sun belt region. For reliable operation in challenging climates with elevated UV doses, PV modules have to be engineered and qualified carefully. Fraunhofer ISE has investigated natural UV spectra at different locations, lamp spectra and associated aging effects in detail.

Over the last two decades Fraunhofer ISE has made important contributions to the quality assurance of PV and solar thermal power plants. We offer quality assessments for every stage of PV or solar thermal power plant projects – from planning and design up to long-term operation.

High temperature processes form a vital part of solar cell fabrication. Examples of such processes are forming the pn-junction by diffusion, firing screen printed contacts, activating surface passivation layers or annealing process induced defects. In order to take full advantage of new materials, continuous optimization of high temperature processes is indispensable.

Solar cell metallization is a crucial point of optimization for silicon solar cells both technologically and from a cost point of view. The introduction of optimized emitters with low surface doping concentrations enables solar cell efficiency improvements in advanced silicon solar cell concepts. Silver material for metallization may become critical in the future with respect to high material costs, cost fluctuations and large scale availability.

Die klimatischen Einflüsse, die auf Solaranlagen einwirken, sind je nach Standort sehr verschieden. Dadurch ergeben sich unterschiedliche Anforderungen für Materialien und Komponenten von PV-Modulen und thermischen Kollektoren. Um die Auswirkungen der unterschiedlichen Witterungseinflüsse auf die Beständigkeit von Solarkomponenten zu untersuchen, betreibt das Fraunhofer-Institut für Solare Energiesysteme ISE Außenprüfstände in vier verschiedenen Klimaten. Wir bieten unseren Kunden an, Module, Kollektoren sowie Materialien und Komponenten an unseren Außenprüfständen zu exponieren und deren Verhalten in den verschiedenen Klimaten präzise zu monitoren. In Kooperationen bieten wir auch Außenprüfungen in den USA und in Saudi-Arabien an. Die Messwerte aus der Freibewitterung unserer eigenen Exponate können wir dabei als Referenz verwenden

Based on many years of experience in characterization and evaluation of CPV modules, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE offers support in the development, investigation and analysis of CPV module / system design and performance. We follow a compre-hensive and holistic approach in order to provide the best benefit for our customers.

With its long-term experience, Fraunhofer ISE offers a wide array of services including the quality assurance of PV systems, battery system technology and battery storage integration in commercial PV applications as well as in hybrid PV diesel mini-grids.Our support ranges from the identification and analyses of load profiles and the design of the entire power system through to the implementation and operation phase of the facility.

Auf Basis seiner langjährigen Erfahrung bietet das Fraunhofer ISE in den Bereichen der Qualitätssicherung von PV-Kraftwerken, der Batteriesystemtechnik und der Integration von Batteriesystemen in PV-Anlagen sowie der Simulation von Energiesystemen ein umfangreiches Leistungsspektrum für Planer, Projektentwickler und Investoren an. Wir begleiten sie dabei von der Planung über die Umsetzung bis zum Betrieb der Anlage.

Based on many years of experience in prototyping and testing, Fraunhofer ISE supports providers of concentrator PV modules and systems in the development, investigation and analysis of system design and performance. We follow a comprehensive approach, always keeping the economical application in mind. Our main R&D efforts in High Concentration Modules and Systems are combined in the Concentrator Technologies & Evaluation Center (ConTEC).

Solar cell manufacturers are challenged to continuously investigate efficiency limitations of their products in order to detect optimization opportunities. Fraunhofer ISE offers a customized Complete Solar Cell Loss Analysis package including experimental results as well as detailed expert reports.

N-type solar cells offer the highest conversion efficiencies due to the absence of light induced degradation and the lower sensitivity to common impurities like iron. At the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE we develop process sequences for n-type cells that considerably reduce the number of process steps. A key technology is the simultaneous diffusion of p and n dopants by co-diffusion.

Manufacturers of silicon wafers and cells are challenged to deploy indepth material analysis in order to optimize material performance and increase the efficiency and quality of their products. Fraunhofer ISE provides customized Efficiency Analysis packages including experimental results as well as detailed expert reports based on our unique methodology.

In order to further increase the quality of their products, manufacturers of silicon wafers and cells are challenged to perform detailed analysis of the impurity distribution in their materials. Fraunhofer ISE provides customized Impurity Distribution Analysis services encompassing experimental results as well as detailed expert reports based on our unique methodology.

Fraunhofer ISE has been working on crystalline silicon thin-film solar cells for many years. Our speciality lies in silicon and silicon-based deposition on a variety of silicon and non-silicon  substrates, the recrystallization of silicon layers and in adapting solar cell production processes. We are experts in handling a wide range of contamination levels, variable substrate sizes and morphologies and temperatures up to 1500 °C.

Equipped with an excellent infrastructure and long-standing expertise, Fraunhofer ISE offers a variety of services in the field of functional printing. Silicon solar cells serve as a well-known example for printed devices which are produced on an industrial level. The future of solar cells lies in optimization and higher efficiencies,  which can be achieved by developing new cell concepts. With increasingly sophisticated cell concepts, new printing processes featuring high precision and fine details are required in the production.

Photovoltaic cells can convert monochromatic light into electricity much more efficiently than the spectrum of the solar radiation. By tuning the photovoltaic cell’s semiconductor bandgap to the specific wavelength of the light, thermalization and transmission losses are minimized. In this way, high conversion efficiencies of light into electricity over 50% have been realized.

Substitute for Silver on Solar Cells: Despite recently achieved reductions in consumption, screen printed silver used in solar cell front side metallization is still an important cost driver in solar cell production. Furthermore, the conductivity of printed and fired metallization is limited due to glass compounds and porous structure.

Micro- and nanostructured surfaces can fulfill a variety of different functions. An important application field is photon management in optical systems. The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE advances the fundamental understanding of the optics of microstructured components, modeling, design, production as well as replication and characterization of large-area micro- and nanostructures.

Low concentrating photovoltaic (LCPV) systems using adapted silicon solar cells are an interesting path for producing low cost electricity from solar energy. Fraunhofer ISE has wide experience in Si solar cell technology, concentrating technologies and system development. We partner with industry to achieve the highest performance on the component and system levels.

Methods for the fabrication of high-quality silicon surface passivation layers have received much attention recently. One approach that makes use of these layers is the Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC). Compared to conventional solar cells with a full area aluminium alloyed rear contact, the combination of surface passivation layers and local rear contacts results in an improved light trapping and a reduced surface recombination, leading to higher conversion efficiencies.

Metal wrap through (MWT) solar cells provide higher conversion efficiencies under processes close to standard fabrication sequences. Therefore this concept exhibits an excellent perspective for large-scale PV market penetration. In more than 8 years of research and development in the field of MWT technology, a profound expertise has been acquired at Fraunhofer ISE.

The development of high-efficiency cell structures is one of the key factors to accelerate the progress of the leading PV technology: crystalline silicon solar cells. With its excellent equipment of new and cutting-edge technologies, its comprehensive characterization pool and the extensive know-how of the physics and technology of advanced solar cell structures, ETAlab® with its over 100 scientists, engineers and technicians can assist your company in introducing the next generation of silicon technologies and cell architectures.

In the quest for further efficiency increase of solar cells at reduced costs, new cell concepts are getting strongly into focus. Such concepts are often complex and exhibit a large number of processing steps. The numerical modelling of the production processes and the complete solar cell provide here the decisive key to reduce the time to market, as they can dramatically reduce the number of required experimental tests.

Crystalline silicon based tandem solar cells are a promising way to circumvent the conversion efficiency limits of conventional single-junction photovoltaic cells. In such devices, the visible wavelength range of the solar spectrum is converted more efficiently by adding additional pn-junctions on top of a Si cell.

The department “III-V Epitaxy and Solar Cells” at Fraunhofer ISE with more than 50 employees today has a long tradition working on high efficiency solar cells made from III-V compound  semiconductors. Solar cells have been developed for space and terrestrial concentrator applications reaching efficiencies up to 41.1 % (C = 450).

The highest conversion efficiencies of sunlight into electricity are obtained for multi-junction solar cells made of so-called III-V compound semiconductors. This class of materials combines  elements from the 3rd and 5th column of the periodic table like Al, Ga, In, As, P, N or Sb in a single crystal.

Farbstoffsolarmodule sind eine noch junge Photovoltaik-Technologie, die sich aber in den letzten Jahren deutlich über den Labormaßstab hinaus entwickelt hat. Ihre Zielanwendung ist die  Integration in die Gebäudehülle. Eine große Herausforderung bei der Entwicklung neuer Photovoltaik-Technologien stellt die Aufskalierung – also der Schritt von der Laborgröße in die industrielle Umsetzung – dar.

FuE mit optischen Methoden wird in mehreren Marktsegmenten der Solartechnik benötigt, so z. B. bei Solarzellen, Fenstern und Fassaden, solarthermischen Kollektoren und Konzentratorsystemen. Unsere Schwerpunkte liegen in der optischen Simulation, der Oberflächencharakterisierung und Analytik sowie bei der Entwicklung von optimierten Schichtsystemen mittels PVD-Verfahren sowie der Oberflächenstrukturierung mit Hilfe der Laserinterferenzlithographie.

We offer professional assistance in the design of concentrating optics for Concentrated Solar Thermal Power (CSP) and Concentrator Photovoltaic (CPV) applications.

We offer calibrated measurements of III-V multi-junction cells for space and terrestrial concentrator applications as well as of single-junction concentrator solar cells.

SIMTEC is our Silicon Material Technology research center at Fraunhofer ISE. It focuses on the front end processes of the solar value chain. Starting with various sources of silicon feedstock, it involves multicrystalline block crystallization, block shaping, wafering and – as a new technology in PV – silicon epitaxy for crystalline silicon thin-film wafer equivalents.

Crystalline silicon thin-film (c-SiTF) solar cells present a promising concept to combine the advantages of conventional wafer-based silicon solar cells with those of thin-film solar cells: high and stable efficiencies and low production costs. In our approach, the electrically active base of the solar cell with a thickness of a few tens of micrometers is grown upon a substrate material, which gives the necessary mechanical stability.

The precise measurement of solar cells and modules is of crucial importance in solar technology. As one of the world’s leading laboratories, CalLab PV Cells, the photovoltaic calibration laboratory at Fraunhofer ISE, provides comprehensive measurement services in this field since 30 years.

Aiming at steadily reducing the levelized cost of electricity of PV plants, state-ofthe- art research and development in silicon photovoltaics must focus on material quality: This relates to feedstock quality, to the impact of the crystallization and wafering processes, and to the impact of the individual solar cell process on material quality. Such focus on material quality calls for accurate analysis techniques of efficiency-limiting electrical characteristics in all stages of solar cell production – ranging from crystallization to metalization.

High temperature processes form a vital part of solar cell fabrication. Examples of such processes are forming the pn-junction by diffusion, firing screen printed contacts, activating surface passivation layers or annealing process induced defects. In order to take full advantage of new materials, continuous optimization of high temperature processes is indispensable.

Solar cell metallization is a crucial point of optimization for silicon solar cells both technologically and from a cost point of view. The introduction of optimized emitters with low surface doping concentrations enables solar cell efficiency improvements in advanced silicon solar cell concepts. Silver material for metallization may become critical in the future with respect to high material costs, cost fluctuations and large scale availability.

Solar cell manufacturers are challenged to continuously investigate efficiency limitations of their products in order to detect optimization opportunities. Fraunhofer ISE offers a customized Complete Solar Cell Loss Analysis package including experimental results as well as detailed expert reports.

Manufacturers of silicon wafers and cells are challenged to deploy indepth material analysis in order to optimize material performance and increase the efficiency and quality of their products. Fraunhofer ISE provides customized Efficiency Analysis packages including experimental results as well as detailed expert reports based on our unique methodology.

In order to further increase the quality of their products, manufacturers of silicon wafers and cells are challenged to perform detailed analysis of the impurity distribution in their materials. Fraunhofer ISE provides customized Impurity Distribution Analysis services encompassing experimental results as well as detailed expert reports based on our unique methodology.

N-type solar cells offer the highest conversion efficiencies due to the absence of light induced degradation and the lower sensitivity to common impurities like iron. At the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE we develop process sequences for n-type cells that considerably reduce the number of process steps. A key technology is the simultaneous diffusion of p and n dopants by co-diffusion.

Fraunhofer ISE has been working on crystalline silicon thin-film solar cells for many years. Our speciality lies in silicon and silicon-based deposition on a variety of silicon and non-silicon  substrates, the recrystallization of silicon layers and in adapting solar cell production processes. We are experts in handling a wide range of contamination levels, variable substrate sizes and morphologies and temperatures up to 1500 °C.

Substitute for Silver on Solar Cells: Despite recently achieved reductions in consumption, screen printed silver used in solar cell front side metallization is still an important cost driver in solar cell production. Furthermore, the conductivity of printed and fired metallization is limited due to glass compounds and porous structure.

Micro- and nanostructured surfaces can fulfill a variety of different functions. An important application field is photon management in optical systems. The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE advances the fundamental understanding of the optics of microstructured components, modeling, design, production as well as replication and characterization of large-area micro- and nanostructures.

Methods for the fabrication of high-quality silicon surface passivation layers have received much attention recently. One approach that makes use of these layers is the Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC). Compared to conventional solar cells with a full area aluminium alloyed rear contact, the combination of surface passivation layers and local rear contacts results in an improved light trapping and a reduced surface recombination, leading to higher conversion efficiencies.

High temperature processes form a vital part of solar cell fabrication. Examples of such processes are forming the pn-junction by diffusion, firing screen printed contacts, activating surface passivation layers or annealing process induced defects. In order to take full advantage of new materials, continuous optimization of high temperature processes is indispensable.

Fraunhofer ISE has long time experience in developing highest performance solar cells made from III-V compound semiconductors. We use materials made from the 3rd and 5th column  of the periodic table such as GaAs or GaInP to develop multi-junction devices. Our solar cells reach record efficiencies up to 46.0 % under sunlight concentrated 508 times. We offer  industry and research partners comprehensive services to enhance their products.

Based on many years of experience in characterization and evaluation of CPV modules, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE offers support in the development, investigation and analysis of CPV module / system design and performance. We follow a compre-hensive and holistic approach in order to provide the best benefit for our customers.

Based on many years of experience in prototyping and testing, Fraunhofer ISE supports providers of concentrator PV modules and systems in the development, investigation and analysis of system design and performance. We follow a comprehensive approach, always keeping the economical application in mind. Our main R&D efforts in High Concentration Modules and Systems are combined in the Concentrator Technologies & Evaluation Center (ConTEC).

Ursprünglich wurden Mehrfach-Solarzellen als Energiequellen speziell für die Raumfahrt entwickelt. Ihre Leistung ist hoch, die Herstellung aufwendig. Mit ihren aufeinander abgestimmten Schichten nutzen die Zellen ein viel breiteres Spektrum des Sonnenlichts als gewöhnliche Solarzellen. Für die terrestrische Nutzung werden die Mehrfach-Solarzellen mit Konzentratorsystemen kombiniert. Wie in einem Brennglas fokussieren diese einen hundert- bis tausendfach konzentrierten Lichtstrahl auf die stecknadelkopfgroßen Solarzellen. Dazu führt ein Tracker das gesamte System exakt der Sonne nach. Eine neue Rekord-Solarzelle erreicht einen Wirkungsgrad von über 44 Prozent.

Photovoltaic cells can convert monochromatic light into electricity much more efficiently than the spectrum of the solar radiation. By tuning the photovoltaic cell’s semiconductor bandgap to the specific wavelength of the light, thermalization and transmission losses are minimized. In this way, high conversion efficiencies of light into electricity over 50% have been realized.

Low concentrating photovoltaic (LCPV) systems using adapted silicon solar cells are an interesting path for producing low cost electricity from solar energy. Fraunhofer ISE has wide experience in Si solar cell technology, concentrating technologies and system development. We partner with industry to achieve the highest performance on the component and system levels.

The highest conversion efficiencies of sunlight into electricity are obtained for multi-junction solar cells made of so-called III-V compound semiconductors. This class of materials combines  elements from the 3rd and 5th column of the periodic table like Al, Ga, In, As, P, N or Sb in a single crystal.

FuE mit optischen Methoden wird in mehreren Marktsegmenten der Solartechnik benötigt, so z. B. bei Solarzellen, Fenstern und Fassaden, solarthermischen Kollektoren und Konzentratorsystemen. Unsere Schwerpunkte liegen in der optischen Simulation, der Oberflächencharakterisierung und Analytik sowie bei der Entwicklung von optimierten Schichtsystemen mittels PVD-Verfahren sowie der Oberflächenstrukturierung mit Hilfe der Laserinterferenzlithographie.

We offer professional assistance in the design of concentrating optics for Concentrated Solar Thermal Power (CSP) and Concentrator Photovoltaic (CPV) applications.

We offer calibrated measurements of III-V multi-junction cells for space and terrestrial concentrator applications as well as of single-junction concentrator solar cells.

Organic Photovoltaics (OPV) is an emerging technology that employs organic semiconductors such as polymers and oligomers to convert light into electrical energy. Due to the extremely low material consumption, no heavy metal use and low temperature processing, the environmental impact of this technology is exceptionally low and energy payback times are only a few months. Further advantages are low weight and ultimate flexibility. All materials can be coated and printed with high throughput production methods at low costs allowing solar cells designed in nearly arbitrary shapes. Moreover the absorption spectrum can be tailored so that different colors can be realized; even neutrally tinted semitransparent windows are possible.

Micro- and nanostructured surfaces can fulfill a variety of different functions. An important application field is photon management in optical systems. The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE advances the fundamental understanding of the optics of microstructured components, modeling, design, production as well as replication and characterization of large-area micro- and nanostructures.

Crystalline silicon based tandem solar cells are a promising way to circumvent the conversion efficiency limits of conventional single-junction photovoltaic cells. In such devices, the visible wavelength range of the solar spectrum is converted more efficiently by adding additional pn-junctions on top of a Si cell.

Farbstoffsolarmodule sind eine noch junge Photovoltaik-Technologie, die sich aber in den letzten Jahren deutlich über den Labormaßstab hinaus entwickelt hat. Ihre Zielanwendung ist die  Integration in die Gebäudehülle. Eine große Herausforderung bei der Entwicklung neuer Photovoltaik-Technologien stellt die Aufskalierung – also der Schritt von der Laborgröße in die industrielle Umsetzung – dar.

The share of photovoltaics in global energy supply is increasing rapidly. The dynamic PV module market is driven by high cost pressure and short innovation cycles. A large number of cell manufacturers and material suppliers for backsheets, encapsulants and others offer increasingly efficient and competetive products. The assurance of module quality is becoming outstandingly important for investors and manufacturers.

Along with the massive cost reduction for solar cells, building integration of PV (BIPV) is becoming more and more attractive. On the other hand, solar electricity production on building skins is increasingly required in public tenders.

Electrically conductive adhesives (ECA) have become an important alternative to solder joints for the interconnection of heterojunction solar cells (HJT) as well as for shingle interconnection in industrial production.

In shingle modules rectangular cells are connected by edge overlap, an arrangement similar to roof tiles. The power output of shingle modules is increased by significantly enhancing the active cell area within the module decreasing shading and soiling losses, reducing interconnection losses.

The generation of PV electricity depends on the sun’s position and the weather. In energy meteorology, Fraunhofer ISE develops algorithms to predict PV power for forecast horizons from a few minutes to several days. In order to support a reliable and costeffective power supply, PV power prediction is becoming increasingly important for solar energy trading, management of grid stability, reduction of grid integration cost for PV power.

Bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules are able to utilize light from both sides and can therefore signifi cantly increase the electric yield of PV power plants. The yield gain compared to monofacial modules is mainly determined by the conversion efficiency for solar irradiance incident on the rear side of a bifacial PV module, and the amount and quality of solar irradiance incident on the rear side.

The professional quality assurance services of Fraunhofer ISE have been contributing to high performance and optimal yields of PV power plants for more than 30 years. Real world experience highlights the importance of system design, proper planning, engineering, component selection and construction work for successful PV systems. Thus, comprehensive quality assurance for PV power plants covers all phases of the completion process from the planning to system operation and maintenance.

Multiple factors affect the reliability and long-term performance of photovoltaic modules. The quality and characteristics of the used materials, the interaction of the components, the manufacturing process and, of course, the local climate at the operating site play a significant role. 

At Fraunhofer ISE we use high-resolution analytical methods to assess degradation indicators and mechanisms. These methods serve as powerful tools that  complement the current-voltage (IV) measurements.

Fraunhofer ISE offers a comprehensive range of services for product development and material qualification in the field of module technology. With many years of experience, excellently trained staff and well-equipped laboratories, we turn innovative ideas into new approaches for reliable, efficient and competitive PV modules. We assist our clients in improving the quality and efficiency of existing module and interconnection concepts. At all times we make use of the vast research network available along the entire PV value chain at Fraunhofer ISE.

Colored PV modules strongly support the acceptance and attractivity of building integrated PV (BIPV). Especially architects and building planners desire an individual color choice, saturated colors, a homogeneous appearance for all possible viewing angles and at the same time a high module efficiency. The demand grows rapidly – builders from around the world increasingly ask for self-sufficiency of their buildings.

Photovoltaics have become an important pillar in the global energy supply. Recently, the application of PV technology has especially gained importance in countries with challenging climates, e.g. in the Middle East and North Africa. Due to the constant cost pressure on PV module production, standardized quality assurance remains crucial to ensure safe and reliable products.

High performing PV power plants are key to your return on investment. We offer monitoring services, which include immediate reporting of deviations from the expected performance.

In our accredited calibration laboratory CalLab PV Modules, we combine comprehensive scientific know-how with modern measurement technology. Among our  clients are renowned module manufacturers, EPCs (engineering, procurement, construction) and investors with the highest demands on quality. Many years of experience and our excellent reputation in the field of PV module calibration and performance testing ensure reliable measurement results.

Reference cells produced by Fraunhofer ISE are cutting-edge equipment for manufacturers of PV modules, laboratories and EPC contractors (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) worldwide.

The initial phases of a photovoltaic power plant project are very important for its success. We offer professional quality assurance services for project development and engineering.

The integration of solar cells into photovoltaic modules results in gains and losses that change the power and efficiency of the module in comparison to the initial solar cells. With SmartCalc.CTM Fraunhofer ISE provides a professional software solution to optimize solar modules and to analyze cellto-module (CTM) gain and loss factors.

Bei bauwerksintegrierter Photovoltaik (BIPV) handelt es sich um Bauelemente, die zusätzlich zu ihrer bautechnischen Anwendung Elektrizität generieren. Über die gesamte Anwendungsdauer gesehen sind sie in manchen Fällen sogar günstiger als herkömmliche Bauelemente. Außerdem tragen sie zur Erreichung der nationalen und europäischen Klimaschutzziele bei.

In the past few years, Potential Induced Degradation (PID) has been recognized as a failure mechanism that can cause substantial power loss in different PV module types and decrease the power plant performance ratio. In some cases, corrosive PID also becomes visible in module appearance.

Device-integrated photovoltaics are an effective solution for small and grid-independent applications. Power generating solar cells provide a reliable, cost effective and flexible source of electrical energy for a wide range of consumers.

Over the last two decades Fraunhofer ISE has made important contributions to the quality assurance of PV and solar thermal power plants. We offer quality assessments for every stage of PV or solar thermal power plant projects – from planning and design up to long-term operation.

Die klimatischen Einflüsse, die auf Solaranlagen einwirken, sind je nach Standort sehr verschieden. Dadurch ergeben sich unterschiedliche Anforderungen für Materialien und Komponenten von PV-Modulen und thermischen Kollektoren. Um die Auswirkungen der unterschiedlichen Witterungseinflüsse auf die Beständigkeit von Solarkomponenten zu untersuchen, betreibt das Fraunhofer-Institut für Solare Energiesysteme ISE Außenprüfstände in vier verschiedenen Klimaten. Wir bieten unseren Kunden an, Module, Kollektoren sowie Materialien und Komponenten an unseren Außenprüfständen zu exponieren und deren Verhalten in den verschiedenen Klimaten präzise zu monitoren. In Kooperationen bieten wir auch Außenprüfungen in den USA und in Saudi-Arabien an. Die Messwerte aus der Freibewitterung unserer eigenen Exponate können wir dabei als Referenz verwenden

With its long-term experience, Fraunhofer ISE offers a wide array of services including the quality assurance of PV systems, battery system technology and battery storage integration in commercial PV applications as well as in hybrid PV diesel mini-grids.Our support ranges from the identification and analyses of load profiles and the design of the entire power system through to the implementation and operation phase of the facility.

Auf Basis seiner langjährigen Erfahrung bietet das Fraunhofer ISE in den Bereichen der Qualitätssicherung von PV-Kraftwerken, der Batteriesystemtechnik und der Integration von Batteriesystemen in PV-Anlagen sowie der Simulation von Energiesystemen ein umfangreiches Leistungsspektrum für Planer, Projektentwickler und Investoren an. Wir begleiten sie dabei von der Planung über die Umsetzung bis zum Betrieb der Anlage.

Metal wrap through (MWT) solar cells provide higher conversion efficiencies under processes close to standard fabrication sequences. Therefore this concept exhibits an excellent perspective for large-scale PV market penetration. In more than 8 years of research and development in the field of MWT technology, a profound expertise has been acquired at Fraunhofer ISE.