Thermal behaviour of new crystalline semitransparent solar cell structure

Abstract

This paper presents the structure of a novel semitransparent solar cell and its thermal behaviour, which cell can be used for building integrated applications. The crystalline self-made test cells can be manufactured using basic semiconductor technological steps, arbitrary pattern of holes can be etched. We report on two alternative methods for thermal behaviour characterisation of the novel semitransparent solar cell compared to non-transparent solar cells. The first method is thermal dependence and High Temperature Store (HTS)—condition A testing and the second is application of conventional thermal imaging in combination with electrical current heating of the solar cell. I–V characteristic measurements at preset temperatures demonstrate that the new semitransparent sample despite the throughout holes can be as effective as the without hole solar cell. IR imaging results reveal the localised resistive heating zones or shunting in the test cells. This research examines the influence of the through-holes on the thermal properties of solar cells.