Specific PVMaT R&D on Siemens Cz Silicon Product Manufacturing: Final Subcontract Report, June 1998 - September 2001

This report describes work to improve the cost per watt of Cz modules and to improve PV module manufacturing technology. The focus of the three-year program was to implement a 17%-efficient, 195-micron-thick cell with a 30% reduction in manufacturing cost. In addition, the program developed a prototype, 200-mm-diameter cell with low-cost module packaging. A final result is also a 50% reduction inslurry use through recycling of silicon carbide, and a 70% reduction in caustic waste. Work focused on reducing the cost per watt of Cz silicon photovoltaic modules under Siemens Solar Industries' DOE/NREL PVMaT 5A2 subcontract is described in this report. Work on cell thickness reduction, the required electrical and mechanical changes to accommodate these thinner cells, larger cells, and wastereduction are all described in this final summary.