Outdoor performance of triple stacked a-Si photovoltaic module in various geographical locations and climates

A systematic investigation has been made on the power output measurement of a-Si//a-SiGe//a-SiGe triple stacked solar cells. Prototype modules incorporating triple a-Si cells fabricated using a high deposition rate plasma CVD process with a microwave power source have been exposed outdoors for about a half to one year at three different geographical locations to evaluate their outdoor performance under cold, temperate and tropical climates. The results showed that a-Si performed better under higher temperature climates. Energy efficiency over 8% was obtained in Kuala Lumpur. A power rating under 1 Sun, 50 °C light soaking conditions seem to be reasonable in Kyoto