Development of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Modules

Abstract

Recent progress in the development of dye-sensitized solar cell modules including so-called W-type, Z-type and S-type is reviewed with emphasis on our own activities. We have realized monolithically series-interconnected modules (so-called S-type) of 240 mm×240 mm in size, each consisting of 22 stripe-shaped cells with an automatable process employing improved screen-printed carbon-based counter electrodes (CE), and started outdoor performance test. We also developed 95 mm×95 mm transparent S-type modules with 12 stripe-shaped cells employing Pt-loaded In2O3-Sn nanoparticles in place of the carbon-based material for CE to compose plane-emitting night-lights driven by solar energy. Additionally, using specially designed S-type modules of 100 mm×106 mm to elucidate the intrinsic durability, we have obtained 2.5 years outdoor durability data telling 20% decrease from the initial conversion efficiency. These S-type modules are advantageous for cost reduction and suitable for mass-production as well as applications exploiting transparency and freedom in choice of colors. These modules are free from vacuum processing to attain a future competitive low production cost of electricity.