Technological Innovations at Global Solar Energy
Photovoltaics and conventional thick-film technology
Photovoltaics, the transformation of radiation or solar energy into electrical energy, takes place in solar cells. As soon as solar radiation strikes them, a current is generated. In conventional thick-film technology, these cells are made of crystalline silicon doped with phosphorous and boron.
To produce the cells, highest grade silicon is melted and drawn into crystalline blocks, which are then sawn into small discs called wafers. They are the basic component of crystalline solar cells, which in turn make up the solar modules that generate electric current on roofs and in outdoor plants.
To make them, several solar cells are connected to form larger units and then laminated. They are then framed in aluminum or stainless steel and the front side is sealed with glass. The highest grade silicon required to manufacture cells is produced in a capital and energy-intensive process. Capacity expansion involves a long lead time. Only a limited number of manufacturers possess the technological expertise required for production.
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Thin-film technology
“Thin-film technology” aims to develop silicon-saving or -replacing processes by using alternative semiconductor materials. The semiconductor material (Copper Indium Gallium diSelenide, micromorph silicon or cadmium telluride) is deposited as a thin film on appropriate substrate material. Currently, thin-film technology has a much smaller market share due to the industrial production backing and its lower degree of efficiency. In the long-term however, thin-film technology is expected to overtake thick-film technology in terms of growth. It will go hand in hand with the worldwide demand for photovoltaic systems. |
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