South Korean researchers have achieved a significant milestone in solar technology, developing a silicon back-contact solar cell that improves both efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This innovation leverages advanced laser technology to streamline the basics of solar panel manufacturing, reduce material usage, and enhance the overall performance of solar cells.
Laser Technology for Efficiency and Cost Reductions in Back-contact solar cell
The research team from the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH) has developed a new silicon back-contact solar cell that achieves an impressive efficiency of 24.8%. This was accomplished using a simplified solar panel manufacturing process that relies on advanced solar panel manufacturing machines like lasers to create silicon nanostructures on the cell surface. This innovation reduces the number of steps required to produce the cells, thereby cutting down on manufacturing time and contributing to a more favorable solar panel manufacturing plant cost breakdown.
The back-contact design is a key feature of the new solar cell. Unlike traditional solar cells, where metal contacts are placed on both the front and back surfaces, back-contact cells have all their electrical contacts on the rear side. This clever design eliminates shading on the front surface, allowing more sunlight to be absorbed and converted into electricity. Additionally, the reduced use of metal in the manufacturing process minimizes light reflection and further enhances efficiency.
Key Technical Innovations for Back-contact solar cell
One of the major breakthroughs in this approach is the use of laser technology to simplify the passivation process on the front surface of the cell. Passivation is a crucial step that protects the silicon from environmental degradation and neutralizes surface defects, which improves the cell’s efficiency and lifespan. The researchers applied a thin layer of aluminium oxide—one of the key solar panel raw materials—to the front surface, which was then processed using laser technology to create the necessary silicon nanostructures. This method not only simplifies manufacturing but also reduces material consumption, making the cells more cost-effective.
In addition to the laser-based passivation, the team also employed wet etching to texture the silicon surface. This technique creates a rougher, microscopic texture that minimizes reflectance and enhances light absorption, further boosting the cell’s efficiency. The combination of these methods resulted in a significant improvement over standard back-contact solar cells, which typically achieve efficiencies of around 23%.
Impact on Solar Energy Adoption of Back-contact solar cell
The development of this high-efficiency silicon back-contact solar cell is a major step forward for the solar industry. For homeowners and tenants in Germany, for example, higher efficiency means generating more power from a limited roof space, which is crucial in densely populated areas. By reducing the complexity and cost of manufacturing, this technology has the potential to make solar energy more accessible and affordable globally.
These advancements from research institutions often pave the way for commercial giants. This innovation complements the work of major industry players like Hanwha Q Cells, Korea’s solar leader, in driving the adoption of high-performance solar solutions. This is not an isolated event; South Korea’s research landscape is buzzing with activity. For instance, another team at Chonnam National University recently improved thin-film solar cell performance by inserting an ultra-thin germanium-oxide interlayer, demonstrating a commitment to innovation across various solar technologies.
Looking Ahead for Back-contact solar cell
The researchers at KITECH are optimistic about the future of their silicon back-contact solar cells. With further refinements, they believe that the efficiency of these cells could exceed 25%, making them even more competitive. The next critical step involves scaling up production to bring these advanced solar cells from the laboratory to the market.
This breakthrough in silicon technology is part of a broader push for next-generation solar solutions. South Korea is also heavily invested in other promising technologies, with a goal for the commercialization of Perovskite solar panels: Unique 2030 commercialization aim. As these diverse innovations continue to evolve, they will play a critical role in accelerating the global transition to a more sustainable and renewable energy future.
If you are interested in the technical details that turn a concept like this into a market-ready product, consider exploring the entire manufacturing journey. To gain a deeper understanding, you can sign up for our free e-course on solar panel manufacturing.
