CIGS
CIGS stands for Copper-Indium-Gallium-Selenide. This promising semiconductor material is primarily used in thin-film photovoltaics. CIGS solar cells are characterized by high light yield and good efficiency, approaching that of crystalline silicon solar cells.
Functionality
In a CIGS solar cell, incoming sunlight is converted into electrical energy. The CIGS material absorbs light photons, generating free electrons and "holes." An electric field separates these charge carriers, allowing them to flow as electric current.
Advantages of CIGS Solar Cells
- High Efficiency: CIGS solar cells achieve efficiencies comparable to those of crystalline silicon solar cells.
- Thin-Film Technology: Compared to conventional solar cells, CIGS solar cells are significantly thinner and lighter, reducing manufacturing costs and opening new application areas.
- Flexibility: CIGS solar cells can be applied to flexible substrates, making them interesting for innovative applications such as integrated solar modules in buildings or portable electronics.
- Lower Temperature Dependence: CIGS solar cells exhibit lower performance degradation at high temperatures compared to crystalline silicon solar cells.
Challenges and Future
Although CIGS solar cells have great potential, there are still challenges to overcome. These include the long-term stability of the modules, scaling of production processes, and the availability of raw materials.
Despite these challenges, research and development in the field of CIGS solar cells are being pursued intensively. It is expected that CIGS solar cells will play an important role in the energy transition in the future.
Additional Keywords: Thin-Film Solar Modules, Photovoltaics, Semiconductors, Efficiency, Solar Cell