Reverse characteristics of commercial silicon solar cells-impact on hot spot temperatures and module integrity

For commercial silicon solar cells of 12 manufacturers, reverse I-V characteristics (10 cells each to obtain statistics) and infrared thermal images have been analysed. Except for one cell type, there is a large scatter. Even within batches, cell behaviour varies strongly between avalanche breakdown and thermal breakdown. The impact on blocking diode concepts and maximum cell temperatures, as compared to EVA cure temperatures, is discussed. Some module designs may have to be reviewed.