Low-Cost Solar Array Project: Encapsulation Material Trends Relative to 1986 Cost Goals. A Current Assessment of Fabricating a %.25 Per Ft exp 2 Encapsulation System for a $.50 Per Watt Module

摘要

The status and an assessment of solar photovoltaic module encapsulation systems applicable to the Low-Cost Solar Array (LSA) Project 1986 cost and performance goals are presented. The 1986 LSA cost goal for a 20-year life solar cell module is $.50 per watt or $5 per ft exp 2 . Out of this cost goal, $.25 per ft exp 2 is currently allocated for the encapsulation construction materials, including the mechanical support for the cells. Six basic construction elements were identified and their functions defined. These elements are outer covers, pottants, substrates, superstrates, adhesives, and back covers. For each construction element, a uniform costing basis was established for comparative analysis and an extensive survey of existing commercial materials which could be used was carried out. This survey generated an appreciation of the minimum costs which must be paid for the materials of each construction element and a better awareness of the likelihood of fabricating a $.25 per ft exp 2 encapsulating system. The survey permitted identification of the lowest-costing material classes which could be used to meet the 1986 cost goals. Material deficiencies identified in this survey also permitted recognition of material developmental activities needed in the future. The resultant output from cost and materials analysis derived from these ongoing surveys, suggests that a $.25 per ft exp 2 encapsulation cost goal is attainable, but not without some specifically directed material developmental activities. These activities will focus on modifications to existing materials and evolvement of new and specific product lines from existing and well-established material families. (ERA citation 05:000389)