Modified Visual Appearance of Cu(In,Ga)(Se,S)2 Thin Film Solar Modules for Building Integrated Photovoltaics

The homogeneous and opaque appearance of CIS modules renders them especially suitable for Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV). In order to further increase the acceptance of this technology for BIPV, AVANCIS manufactured a series of Cu(In,Ga)(Se,S)2 solar modules with a modified optical appearance by using different front cover glass textures, coatings, and by realizing a semi-transparent prototype. The back side colour of some devices was also varied by using different substrates and coatings delivered by SAINT-GOBAIN RECHERCHE. The performance of a set of six prototypes with a modified visual appearance (an AR-coated, a Self-cleaning coated, a semitransparent one, and two with different glass textures) was then characterised at the JRC. The results show that, in most cases, the modification to the front side of the devices does not significantly compromise the module performance at STC. Moreover, angle-dependent measurements show that, besides contributing to modify the visual appearance of the modules, a texturized front-glass, helps improving the collection of light at high angles of incidence.

VIRTUANI Alessandro;  ZAAIMAN Willem;  MUELLEJANS Harald;  VOGT H.;  MOGENSEN P.C.;  AUVRAY S.;  DUPUY D.;  MAHE E.; 

2009-02-05

WIP - Renewable Energies

JRC40282