CIS solar modules: pilot production at Wuerth Solar

The pilot production at Wuerth Solar has progressed steadily and the pilot line could be transferred successfully in a continuous operation reaching maximum capacity in 2004. Best modules on the standard size of 60 cm /spl times/ 120 cm reached 85 W/sub P/, which corresponds to 13% aperture area efficiency. The module efficiency in average has been steadily improved reaching values between 11% and 11.5% in the year 2004. The overall process yield of the pilot line could be increased and stabilised at high values well above 80%. The long time reliability of Wuerth Solar CIS modules could be shown by passing successfully the certified test according to EN61646 and stable operation in the field. Additionally outdoor results with CIGS modules in various applications show high energy ratings which are at least as good as the best c-Si systems. Furthermore, various CIGS module types are being developed for building integration and other applications.