Optimization of PERC fabrication based on loss analysis in an industrially relevant environment: First results from GÜNAM photovoltaic line (GPVL).

Passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) concept with an already developed roadmap for 24% efficiency will be leading the photovoltaics industry in the upcoming years. In a few industrial pilot lines, efficiencies above 22% have already been attained. Pilot lines have important roles in bridging lab scale proven concepts with the products which are ready for mass production. Therefore, GUNAM Photovoltaic Line which is specialized on PERC concepts has been established to overcome the barriers that hinder the performance of c-Si solar cells in PERC concepts in a relevant environment. The aim of this article is to show how a loss analysis can be employed in a practical way in an industrially relevant environment. The analysis depends on the first results of the studies from 6 months ramp up period of GPVL. A batch of standard PERC type solar cells with p-type base and atomic layer deposited Al 2 O 3 rear passivation have been fabricated during the ramp up of the line. A detailed gain-loss analysis was performed to address the optical, electrical and recombination losses in order to increase the cell efficiency. • Pilot lines bridge lab scale proven concepts with the products which are ready for mass production. • PERC technology has gained up to 21% market share along all Si based technologies. • Detailed loss analysis helps to draw roadmaps for higher efficiencies. • 19.21% efficiency PERC was fabricated in pilot environment as expected by loss analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]