2 March 2016
Together with industry, Fraunhofer ISE developed a crystalline PV module called “TPedge” using a process that saves both time and money and replaces the lamination step. Innovative back-contacted solar cells from the Institute’s own production are integrated into the module. When the energy-efficient lab building was inaugurated in 2013, a few of the PV modules were installed on the facade for test purposes. Now the solar facade is complete and all 70 modules are in operation.
Innovative solar cell technology
The crystalline PV modules are based on an innovative solar cell technology using back contacts. This so-called “High Performance Metal Wrap Through” (HIP-MWT) concept was developed and patented by Fraunhofer ISE. The solar cells were developed in a near-industry process and produced in small-scale production at the Photovoltaic Technology Evaluation Center (PV-TEC) of Fraunhofer ISE. The solar cells are interconnected with a patented cell connector made of copper. This structured metal foil reduces the electrical stringing losses down to about 1 per cent and minimizes the mechanical stress on the cells.
Fixed at points in a glass-glass module
Another innovative feature is the module encapsulation. The solar cells are not laminated in the conventional way, but rather fixed at points in a glass-glass module. The edges of the TPedge module are sealed with a thermoplastic material, making an aluminum frame unnecessary. This new type of module construction is also a Fraunhofer ISE invention.
Over 100 TPedge modules
In all, over 100 TPedge modules were manufactured using automated solutions developed by Fraunhofer ISE. A representative sample of the modules was selected for tests and successfully passed sequences based on the IEC standard 61215. Both external and internal partners contributed to the success of this project. Since October, the PV facade provides electricity to consumers in the building. To analyze operation, a team from Fraunhofer ISE is continuously monitoring the electric and meteorological parameters on site.
Photovoltaics on the outer facade
From the lab to the facade: The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE has installed 70 photovoltaic modules on the outer facade of one of its lab buildings. The modules were developed and produced by the Institute and demonstrate the interplay of different technologies.
 Photo: Fraunhofer ISEFraunhofer ISE has integrated 70 PV modules of its own development and production into the building facade of one of its laboratories. |
Innovative solar cell technology
The crystalline PV modules are based on an innovative solar cell technology using back contacts. This so-called “High Performance Metal Wrap Through” (HIP-MWT) concept was developed and patented by Fraunhofer ISE. The solar cells were developed in a near-industry process and produced in small-scale production at the Photovoltaic Technology Evaluation Center (PV-TEC) of Fraunhofer ISE. The solar cells are interconnected with a patented cell connector made of copper. This structured metal foil reduces the electrical stringing losses down to about 1 per cent and minimizes the mechanical stress on the cells.
Fixed at points in a glass-glass module
Another innovative feature is the module encapsulation. The solar cells are not laminated in the conventional way, but rather fixed at points in a glass-glass module. The edges of the TPedge module are sealed with a thermoplastic material, making an aluminum frame unnecessary. This new type of module construction is also a Fraunhofer ISE invention.
Over 100 TPedge modules
In all, over 100 TPedge modules were manufactured using automated solutions developed by Fraunhofer ISE. A representative sample of the modules was selected for tests and successfully passed sequences based on the IEC standard 61215. Both external and internal partners contributed to the success of this project. Since October, the PV facade provides electricity to consumers in the building. To analyze operation, a team from Fraunhofer ISE is continuously monitoring the electric and meteorological parameters on site.
More news about "Farbe, Ausbau & Fassade":
10 March 2016
New impulses through the FAF FARBE, AUSBAU & FASSADE: The "Rendering Codes" special exhibition illustratively presented the future potential of stucco plaster as an artistic facade element. (more…)
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