Increasing cell efficiency is one way to reduce the cost of solar power and the reduction of cell-to-module losses during module assembly is another strategy which enables a significant increase of module output by integrating only one additional process step.

The device-inherent resistivity, together with the high photo-induced current of solar cells in one string, is causing significant electrical losses when cell-to-cell interconnection takes place during stringing. That represents one of the main contributors to electrical performance and has a high impact on later module efficiency.

When using half or quarter cells instead of full cells, the impact of cell resistivity in one string can be lowered due to a reduction of photo-induced current per unit cell.

As a result of German research institutes, the output power of half-cell modules increases up to 10-15W, driven by significantly higher Isc and FF.

A six-month real-world outdoor measurement in Germany, using half-cell modules, confirmed a 3% higher average module power yield in comparison with standard modules and represents a strong argument of using cell cutting to reduce cell-to-module losses.

An integrated solution

InnoLas offers an integrated solution based on its new ILM-2 laser machine and handling platform, for an advanced precise and high-aspect-ratio laser grooving process, together with a soft breaking method.

With a high throughput of 2,850 cells/h of incoming full cells, the machine package represents the first production cell cutting tool in the market.

Markus Nicht, CEO of InnoLas Solutions, said: "We see an increasing demand for cell cutting solutions in the market. That is why we designed the ILM-2 as a modular machine concept that can be used as a standalone or in-line system, with the option to use different laser sources and different automation concepts.

"The ILM-2 offers our customers a future-proof 24/7 production solution with an excellent up-time. The orders received recently for our ILM-2 laser machine, covering a 300 MW production capacity of fully automatic cell cutting, demonstrate our customers honor the InnoLas approach that exclusively stands for production proven components without any compromise."