The packaging technologies for photovoltaic modules - technological challenges and mechanical integrity

The paper describes the problems of interconnecting single solar cells with each other to create a photovoltaic module. High power und low voltages demand the transport of high currents through the interconnection wires. The resistance of the wiring is crucial, because it significantly influences the total module efficiency. However, increasing the width and height of the rectangular wires leads to significant mechanical problems, because the brittle silicon solar cells are prone to breakage. Therefore innovations in interconnection technologies are needed to release mechanical stresses during the assembly process.