WHERE PV CAN CUT COSTS

Critical Cost Reduction Targets Identified in the International Technology Roadmap for Photovoltaics
Bettina Weiss, April 1, 2011 (PV Group)

"…[ The 2010 International Technology Roadmap for Photovoltaics (ITRPV) from the Crystalline Silicon PV Technology and Manufacturing Group (CTM), in cooperation with SEMI PV Group] identifies and targets critical technology needs and cost reduction goals for PV materials, manufacturing methods and processes…

"One key insight derived from the roadmapping effort is the need for cost reduction in metallization pastes used for cell processing which are ‘the most process critical and expensive materials in cell production besides the wafer itself.’ As part of Roadmap goals, the CTM is targeting a reduction in silver usage from 0.25 grams per cell today to 0.1 grams per cell by 2015…"

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"…Other critical technology improvements identified by the report are poly-silicon and consumables pricing, wafer thickness, glass absorption/reflection, manufacturing throughput and yield improvements, equipment productivity, and other areas.

"The Roadmap aims to inform suppliers and customers about expected technology trends in the field of crystalline silicon (c-Si) photovoltaics and sets a basis to intensify the dialog on required improvements and standards…"

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"…The second edition of the ITRPV was jointly prepared by leading European c-Si solar cell manufacturers, module manufacturers, and wafer suppliers. Feedback and input from various institutes, equipment suppliers and providers of production materials was also included. The information will be updated and published yearly to ensure good communication between manufacturers and suppliers throughout the value chain…

"The CTM Group (Bluechip Energy, Bosch Solar, Q-Cells, SCHOTT Solar, Solarworld, Solland, Sovello, and Sunways) have established a crystalline solar cell technology roadmap up to the year 2020…[describing] development of crystalline solar cell technology with focus on materials, manufacturing processes, and product development. The CTM Group has a clear goal— to roll-out the roadmapping effort on a global scale…"