Sliver Cells - A Complete Photovoltaic Solution

Abstract

Sliver technology was invented and developed at the Australian National University [1-3], with support from the Australian company Origin Energy. The Sliver process uses standard materials and techniques in novel ways to create thin single crystalline solar cells with superior performance and reduced cost. Sliver cells are made from very thin single crystalline silicon, and are highly efficient. Sliver technology offers reductions in silicon consumption by a factor of 10-15 and reductions in wafer throughput per Megawatt by a factor of 20-50. This paper examines the economic potential of Sliver cells. We show that, with careful engineering, a reduction in the cost of PV modules of up to three quarters is possible in the medium term, without the need for any breakthroughs. Sliver technology, with its low cost and multiple attributes, could be a long-term solution for photovoltaics.