A-Si:H/c-Si heterojunctions: A future mainstream technology for high-efficiency crystalline silicon solar cells?

Christophe Ballif*, Loris Barraud, Antoine Descoeudres, Zachary C. Holman, Sophie Morel, Stefaan De Wolf

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this contribution, we shortly review the main features of amorphous /crystalline silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells, including interface defects and requirements for high quality interfaces. We show how a process flow with a limited number of process steps leads to screen printed solar cells of 2×2cm2 with 21.8% efficiency and of 10×10cm2 with 20.9% efficiency (n-type FZ). We show that the devices work in high injection conditions of 3×1015cm3 at the maximum power point, a factor two higher than the base doping. Several research labs and companies can now produce large area 6 cells well over 20% on CZ wafers and some of the critical cost factors, such a metallization can be overcome with suitable strategies. Based on the high quality coating tools and processes developed for thin films used for flat panel display or thin film solar cell coatings, the deposition of the layers required to make SHJ cells has the potential to be performed in a controlled way at low cost. Considering the few process steps required, the high quality n-type Cz wafers that can be obtained by proper crystal growth control, SHJ technology has several assets that could make it become a widespread PV technology.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProgram - 38th IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference, PVSC 2012
Pages1705-1709
Number of pages5
DOIs
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes
Event38th IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference, PVSC 2012 - Austin, TX, United States
Duration: Jun 3 2012Jun 8 2012

Publication series

NameConference Record of the IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference
ISSN (Print)0160-8371

Other

Other38th IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference, PVSC 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAustin, TX
Period06/3/1206/8/12

Keywords

  • amorphous silicon
  • crystalline silicon
  • silicon heterojunction solar cells

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Control and Systems Engineering
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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