SBIR Phase I: Solar Cell Lateral Collection Feasibility Study

Solarity, State College PA

Investigators

Abstract

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is to investigate an innovative structure for improving the efficiency of amorphous silicon based solar cells. Amorphous silicon has a short minority carrier diffusion length and the innovative structure reduces the distance necessary to collect photogenerated electrons. Increasing the efficiency of solar cells can significantly reduce the cost per unit energy output. Amorphous silicon solar cells also use less silicon than do crystalline based cells. Reducing the cost and increasing the efficiency of solar cells will positively impact the adoption rate of photovoltaic power systems. This award is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5).