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Materials and Processes for High-Performance Cadmium Telluride Photovoltaic Modules--First Solar, LLC, 702 North Westwood Avenue, Toledo, OH 43607-1241; 419-534-3377
Dr. Rick C. Powell, Principal Investigator
Mr. Greg Nelson, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-98ER82670
Amount: $750,000
Cadmium telluride solar cells are the best prospect for low-cost photovoltaic power. However, unsolved technical issues include the wide gap between theoretical and actual cell efficiency; inter-diffusion between active layers; variable device stability under extended illumination; low degree of source utilization in the deposition of the front active film; complex and time-consuming methods of post-treatment of the layers; and lack of compatibility between processes that hampers high-throughput manufacture. This project will develop materials and process technology for the high-throughput manufacturing of high-performance, low-cost, photovoltaic devices for large-scale applications. In particular, the gap between theoretical and actual cell efficiency will be closed by developing in-line deposition processes for improved active layers, and reliable dry processes for post-treatment of the layers. In Phase I, physical vapor deposition processes, compatible with high-throughput manufacturing, were developed for improved alloy absorber and interfacial layers. The absorber layers have been shown to be effective as barriers against inter-diffusion and to lead to high device performance. A dry post-treatment method also was demonstrated and adopted in the manufacturing process. Phase II will develop low-cost, photovoltaic devices having a conversion efficiency 15 percent higher than existing CdTe devices and having degradation in performance less than 1 percent per year. In addition, production rate and yield will equal or exceed those for the standard product.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Applications for low-cost, photovoltaic arrays include grid and distributed power worldwide, parking garages, residential buildings, communications, water purification, and water pumping.