Cost Analysis of Tandem Modules

We develop a bottom up cost model for manufacturing II-VI based tandem PV modules. The architectures we consider are a mechanically stacked CdTe-on-CIGS four-terminal tandem and a monolithic, high-Eg CdTe alloy-on-CIGS two-terminal tandem PV module. Energy yield of these modules is assessed in three locations of distinct climates: dry, temperate, and humid using the method described in [1]. We use our cost model and yield calculations to compare the viability of the two tandem architectures. We find that the four-terminal tandem module has a significantly higher MSP both per area and per watt. Examining the energy yield for each architecture shows that the four-terminal tandem has a better performance ratio than the two-terminal tandem. Due to the high energy yield of the four-terminal tandems, installed systems can cost from 14-19% than the two-terminal for the same LCOE.