EU-funded research: Smart Energy
Uniting PV
Project title
Applying silicon solar cell technology to revolutionize the design of thin-film solar cells and enhance their efficiency, cost and stability
Funding mechanism
H2020, ERC Starting Grant Bart Vermang
Timing
01 March 2017 – 28 February 2022
Description
Solar cells are a key technology for Europe, since regulations require buildings to become near energy neutral by 2020. Uniting PV aims to revolutionize the design of thin-film solar cell for building-integrated energy generation, specifically addressing current stability and reliability issues. Scientifically, Uniting PV will radically transform the design of CIGS(e) solar cells by implementing advanced surface techniques, introducing structures and layers also used in silicon solar technology. Technologically, the projects targets to develop a solar cell with increased cell efficiency, improved stability and reliability and reduced costs. The outcome will be scalable and create a platform for innovation and collaboration in both thin film and silicon photovoltaics research fields.
Further information
Video: https://vimeo.com/209876181
Press release: https://www.imec-int.com/en/articles/erc-starting-grant-to-revolutionize-the-efficiency-cost-and-stability-of-thin-film-solar-cells
PVMINDS
Project title
Bottom-up PV module energy yield and integrated reliability model for site-specific design optimization
Funding mechanism
H2020, Marie Skłodowska-Curie
Timing
19 February 2018 – 18 February 2020
Description
The reliability of a photovoltaic (PV) module is critical for predicting its energy yield, and hence for reducing PV costs of electricity. However, there is still a limited understanding of PV reliability issues under real-field conditions, and none of the energy yield models so far succeeded in predicting their long-term performance. To address this, PVMINDS plans to develop the first bottom-up reliability model for PV failure/degradation modes, coupled with an advanced simulation of real-field stress factors. In doing this, the project will propose a novel design-for-reliability protocol for site-specific optimization of PV module concepts. The final results will be a predictive reliability tool and site-specific PV design and qualification guidelines.
Further information
EU Project webpage: http://cordis.europa.eu/project/rcn/209827_en.html
POWERBASE
Project title
Enhanced substrates and GaN pilot lines enabling compact power applications
Funding mechanism
H2020, ECSEL JU
Timing
01 May 2015 – 30 April 2018
Description
The goal of PowerBase is to strengthen and expand Europe’s status as a center of expertise for the development and production of innovative power electronics. It will achieve this by setting up a qualified wide band gap GaN technology pilot line. The focus of the project is to expand on the current performance limits of power semiconductors that are based on silicon substrates. Research will be performed along the entire vale chain from material research to advanced systems. The project is coordinated on a European-wide basis in order to make the new semiconductors ready for mass industrial use at globally competitive cost levels.
Further information
Website: http://www.powerbase-project.eu/
Imec magazine: https://www.imec-int.com/en/articles/european-powerbase-to-explore-the-next-generation-power-devices
