Reaching grid parity using bp solar crystalline silicon technology

This paper reports on BP Solar´s DOE sponsored Technology Pathways Partnership. The paper presents the goals, the technical approach and progress for the first half of the three year program. The overall goals of the program are to reach grid parity for residential and commercial markets and to increase production volumes. This program is addressing all aspects of the PV product chain including: Solar grade silicon (SGS) development; Implementation of Mono^2TM technology (single crystal quality at multi cost); Wafering thinner wafers using thinner wire; Optimized cell process for thin Mono^2TM to achieve a cell efficiency of 18% in 2010; Lower module material costs and products designed for integration into specific roof types; Automation and process control for handling hundreds of cells per minute; and Inverters designed with the capability to dispatch batteries. During the first half of the program major accomplishments include: Pilot demonstration of the Mono^2TM process; Achievement of 15.3% average cell efficiency using material cast using 50% SGS; Demonstration of the ability to cut 180 ¿m thick wafers using 120 ¿m diameter wire; Qualification and implementation of AR coated glass from a US vendor; Demonstration of a rapid method of measuring EVA cure level; Design of a building integrated PV roofing tile; and Successful demonstration of the ability to remotely dispatch and recharge a battery.