Scaleable High-Power Output and Low Cost Made-to-Measure Tandem Solar Modules Enabling Specialised PV Applications (SolMates)

SolMates aims to provide a novel industrial, scalable technology for producing flexible, durable, made-to-measure, two-terminal CIGSe/perovskite multijunction thin-film PV modules. By optimized matching of narrow bandgap CIGS bottom cells on flexible substrates (steel, polyimide and flexible glass) with high bandgap perovskite top cells, a conversion efficiency higher than 30% (1cm²) will be reached. The focus on roll-to-roll compatible large-area high-rate deposition techniques for both layer systems in combination with the development of in-line quality control units for defect detection will lead to a minimized cell-to-module gap and full industrial scale-up after the project ends. SolMates will demonstrate a 100 cm² flexible, lightweight, durable, encapsulated monolithic interconnected tandem thin-film module with more than 25%. Due to a unique serial interconnection the made-to-measure production of highly-efficient PV modules in respect to shape, size and output voltage based on multijunction solar cells will become a reality. The developed technologies boost the power output of flexible thin-film PV, paving the way for the uptake of long awaited applications such as integrated PV. By exploiting already existing surfaces for solar energy generation, land-use conflicts will be minimized and the total costs for PV can be reduced. The involved, innovation driven SMEs will cooperate with the research partners to facilitate a pathway to mass production, low-cost, roll-to-roll fabrication of SoleMates’ PV technology and strenghten the EU PV value chain. The environmental footprint of the technology, which is inherently low for thin film devices with thin, flexible, lightweight substrates and encapsulation, will be carefully assessed with respect to SolMates' recycling strategy. Possible end-use applications will be reviewed and a long-term vision, focusing on the environmental, social and economic benefits of utilising PV in our daily lives will be developed.