Fraunhofer Center for Silicon Photovoltaics CSPMore efficiency, less losses
The Fraunhofer-Center for Silicon Photovoltaics CSP has presented a newly developed one-third cell module at the Intersolar industrial trade fair for the first time. A special circuitry design increases the efficiency of the module and at the same time reduces losses due to shading.
The one-third cell module which has been presented to the world public for this first time was a highlight at the stand of Fraunhofer CSP. Like in half-cell modules, it reduces the electric currents in cells and cell connectors. Their electric series resistance losses are only one-ninth as compared to whole cell modules. Due to a higher number of cells and an intelligent circuitry the one-third cell module is also more robust to partial shading. The Fraunhofer researchers combined these improvements with a further innovation. A bypass diode laminated into the module accounts for the fact that distinctly shorter wires are needed as compared to a central junction diode and thus saves costs. In addition, the Fraunhofer CSP's bypass diode is made of solar wafer material – the comprehensive experiences made with this well-established technology can contribute to more reliability in decentral bypass diodes applications.