TOWARDS MINIATURIZATION : A BREAKTHROUGH CHALLENGE FOR HIGHER EFFICIENCY AND RARE ELEMENT SAVING IN NEXT GENERATIONS OF CHALCOGENIDE CIGS CDTE THIN FILM SOLAR CELLS

摘要

The concept of miniaturization of thin film solar cell active areas by using microcells associated withlight concentration is presented in the case of CIGS solar cells. Proof of concept devices with diameters down to 7microns have been successfully tested, with a record equivalent conversion efficiency of 21.3 % under aconcentration of 475. Insights in device physics concern series resistance, temperature effects, edge recombination.Preliminary results for practical applicability are given with selective deposition by electrodeposition. This approachcould lead to a hundred of time less indium consumption with even increased efficiencies as compared to flat platedevices.