Fraunhofer Center for Silicon Photovoltaics CSP
Fraunhofer Center for Silicon Photovoltaics CSP

PV Modules, Components and Manufacturing

With the unique combination of methods from materials science, component and module testing, and modeling, partners and customers receive comprehensive and well-founded support for the development of solar modules and their components from a single source.

Our motivation is to evaluate solar modules with respect to all reliability aspects and to further develop technological processes and materials. 

We offer:

  • process, material and data analytics
  • electrical interconnection technologies
  • Characterization and targeted accelerated aging of PV modules, components and materials
  • mission profile-oriented optimization of materials and PV module concepts
  • damage analysis diagnostics from macro- to microstructure with precise defect localization

Research Topics

 

PV Module and Component Characterization

Characterization of physical material properties is an important prerequisite in reliability assessment, aging investigation and quality assurance of PV module components. Fraunhofer CSP offers power measurement, electroluminescence and other methods for the condition analysis of solar modules.

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Finite Element Analysis of Modules and Components

The results of finite element simulation are used, among other things, to evaluate the reliability and fatigue strength of modules and their components. We conduct simulations of thermo-mechanical stresses, temperatures, current paths and magnetic fields.

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Microstructure Diagnostics

In the field of microstructure diagnostics we look at the design and structure of electrical contacts as well as their interconnection and long-term stability.

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Processes

The work of this team focuses on connection and interconnection processes for prototype construction and module production as well as customer-oriented process diagnostics.

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Unser Beitrag zum IEA PVPS Task 13

Founded in 1993, the IEA PVPS (Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme) is an international collaboration under the International Energy Agency (IEA). A total of 29 countries and organizations – including Germany, the USA, China, and SolarPower Europe – are working together to promote the sustainable use of photovoltaics for electricity generation.

Eight active research projects (Tasks) provide independent insights into key topics such as sustainability, system reliability, and market development. The program aims to advance PV technologies, support competitive markets, and inform energy transition policies.

Fraunhofer CSP is actively involved in Task 13 – Reliability and Performance of Photovoltaic Systems – with Senior Scientist Ulrike Jahn serving as a lead expert.

Below you will find all reports from our research group related to module reliability and performance.

 

The report 13 analyzes reliability and performance of emerging PV technologies, including perovskites, highlighting degradation challenges and mitigation strategies.

 

Annex to Task 13’s report on degradation and failure modes, this document summarizes key single failure types with examples, risk estimates, and mitigation tips – aimed at PV planners, installers, investors, experts, and insurers.

 

The report addresses challenges caused by partial shading in PV systems and evaluates current technical innovations to optimize energy yield under such conditions.