High‑Efficiency Thin‑Film Photovoltaic Architecture with Integrated Back Contact (System and Method for Thin Film Photovoltaic Modules and Back Contact for Thin Solar Cells, Tech ID: 13‑040)
Technology Overview: This technology improves thin‑film photovoltaic (PV) module performance through an integrated back‑contact architecture that enhances current collection and module efficiency. The design reduces electrical losses while enabling more efficient charge extraction from thin solar absorber layers. The approach supports scalable manufacturing and is compatible with multiple thin‑film PV materials, offering a pathway to lower‑cost, high‑performance solar modules.
Industry Pain Point: Thin‑film solar cells often suffer from efficiency losses due to suboptimal electrical contacts and series resistance.
NJIT Solution: This architecture delivers optimized back‑contact integration, improving electrical efficiency without increasing manufacturing complexity.
Key Features & Advantages
- Integrated back contact for improved charge collection
- Reduced series resistance and energy losses
- Compatible with thin‑film manufacturing processes
- Enables lower‑cost, higher‑efficiency PV modules
Development Stage: TRL 4–5 – Prototype designs and validation completed.
Target Markets
- Thin‑film solar module manufacturers
- Distributed and building‑integrated photovoltaics
- Renewable energy systems
Market Opportunity
- Global solar PV market (2026): ~$330B
- CAGR: ~8–9%
- Projected market size (2035): >$600B
Commercial & IP Details
Inventors: Zimeng (Ben) Cheng, Ken Chin, Alan Delahoy