Technology trends in PV modules
India has set an ambitious target of achieving 100 GW of solar energy capacity by 2022, and it is well on its way to achieving this goal. In order to support this rapid expansion, the country needs to ramp up its solar module manufacturing capabilities. Fortunately, there are several technology options available for module manufacturing in India. In this article, we will explore some of these options.
- Silicon-based technologies
Silicon-based technologies are currently the mainstream option for solar module manufacturing. Silicon is abundant and has well-established manufacturing processes. There are two types of silicon-based technologies – crystalline silicon and thin film.
Crystalline silicon is the most widely used technology for solar cells and modules. It has a high efficiency rate and is known for its durability. There are two types of crystalline silicon – monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline cells have a higher efficiency rate but are more expensive to manufacture than polycrystalline cells.
Thin film technology uses a much thinner layer of semiconductor material than crystalline silicon. It is less efficient than crystalline silicon, but it is also less expensive to manufacture. There are several types of thin film technologies, including amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, and copper indium gallium selenide.
- Perovskite technology
Perovskite technology is a relatively new entrant in the solar module manufacturing space. Perovskite cells have the potential to be more efficient than silicon-based cells and can be manufactured using low-cost printing techniques. However, the technology is still in the development phase, and there are concerns about its long-term stability and durability.
- Tandem technology
Tandem technology combines two or more different types of solar cells to create a more efficient module. For example, a tandem module could combine a silicon-based cell with a perovskite cell. Tandem technology is still in the development phase, but it has the potential to significantly increase module efficiency.
- Bifacial technology
Bifacial technology is a type of module that can generate electricity from both sides of the panel. This technology is gaining popularity as it can increase the overall energy output of a solar installation without increasing the number of modules required.
Conclusion
India has several technology options available for solar module manufacturing. Silicon-based technologies are currently the most widely used, but new technologies like perovskite and tandem are emerging. Bifacial technology is also gaining popularity. Companies looking to enter the solar module manufacturing space in India will need to carefully evaluate these technology options to determine which ones are best suited to their markets and manufacturing capabilities.