Optimized Size and Tab Width in Partial Solar Cell Modules including Shingled Designs

Abstract

Cell-to-module loss (CTM loss) is defined by optical and electrical losses. Using partial solar cells can reduce ohmic losses. Today, some manufactures use halved cells even if they have to employ extra effort for sorting, placing, and soldering the solar cells. In this work, the advantage of partial solar cells is described. An LTSpice simulation is used to quantify the reduced ohmic loss and the resulting efficiency gain for differently separated solar cells. This efficiency gain is compared with the whole module area caused by the tab and cell areas. The additional gain due to the backsheet reflection is added afterwards. It can be pointed out that the use of half cells is a technical optimal application while not using shingled modules.