Botswana thin film solar module glass

What are thin-film solar cells?

Solar cells made from the three aforementioned materials are called thin-film solar cells because the absorbers are only a few micrometres thick. Only 0.2 kg of the semiconductor materials is required as the absorber for modules with an output of 1 kW.

Which thin-film technology has the highest cell efficiency?

Today, CIS or CIGS technology is the thin-film technology with the highest levels of cell efficiency. ZSW used to be the record holder several times, last in 2016 with a record of 22.6%. The record stands now at 23.35 % (Solar Frontier). With this value, CIGS has the best qualifications for further strong market growth.

What is the surface area of a solar module?

Solar modules typically have a surface area between 0.7 and 1.6 m², but smaller or larger sizes can be produced if required. The materials researchers at ZSW are specialised in CIGS thin-film technology and the development of new material systems. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Powalla Why CIGS? // Why CIGS thin-film technology?

What is a solar module?

This therefore creates a “solar module” in which the solar cells are protected against rain, hail and UV radiation for at least 20 years. Solar modules typically have a surface area between 0.7 and 1.6 m², but smaller or larger sizes can be produced if required.