Many c-Si solar cell manufacturers are developing various selective emitter processes that place emitters underneath the front contacts of cells to boost conversion efficiencies. However, Manz Automation may be taking a lead in announcing that its laser-based production technology has been selected by Yingli Green, Bosch, and Conergy.
The company said that its ‘OneStep’ selective emitter technology will be implemented at pilot production lines over the coming months with the aim of production verification as soon as possible. Various studies have indicated that the process technology could provide a 0.5% increase in cell conversion efficiencies.
“Our selective emitter technology, coupled with our ultraprecise screenprinter, will enable us to develop additional market shares,” commented Dieter Manz, CEO of Manz Automation. “This technology offers just what solar manufacturers need. According to our research, the process we have developed to create selective emitters offers by far the lowest production costs, and that is why it will help our customers to improve their profitability.”
Manz uses a high-precision printer (HAP2400) and the OneStep selective emitter laser line to produce the SE structure.
Manz has presented technical papers on the technology with other companies, such as Deutsche Cell and REC Solar.
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