Research and industry invest lots of know-how in improving solar cell efficiency. In order that PV modules benefit from the advances in cell efficiency, the cell-to-module integration process must be performed reliably with low losses. With this in mind, the photovoltaic module group at Fraunhofer ISE developed the software SmartCalc.CTM, which enables manufacturers of PV modules and materials to optimise the assembly and material combination in a PV module, before fabricating a prototype.
SmartCalc.CTM determines the cell-to-module effects, or “CTM”, which occur when solar cells are integrated into a module. Starting with the cell power, the software calculates the optical losses and gains (e. g. reflection), electrical losses (e. g. due to resistances) and the geometrical losses (inactive areas) in solar PV modules. The software tool assists in analysing potential yields, thus enabling PV manufacturers to determine how new materials or concepts would affect module efficiency. In the model, the interaction between components and process steps are optimised in such a way that the best possible module – with the highest power or the maximum efficiency under the given boundary conditions – is achieved.
“SmartCalc.CTM was conceived for manufacturers of PV modules and material suppliers,” explains Matthieu Ebert, team leader of “Module Efficiency and New Concepts” at Fraunhofer ISE. “Our software offers added value in that it can quickly analyse the interplay between the influencing factors for design of PV modules and present these in a clear manner.” The underlying models in SmartCalc.CTM provide detailed yet flexible control at the same time. Properties of solar cells, encapsulation material or module glass can be easily adapted. Thus, the use of new materials and components and their effect on the module efficiency can be easily determined, enabling new technologies and module designs to be evaluated rapidly. The software can also be used to optimise costs. For example, different less-expensive materials can be compared and evaluated with respect to the module’s performance efficiency.
SmartCalc.CTM is based on a simulation model which has been published and is under development at Fraunhofer ISE since 2008. The model considers the many factors that influence module performance such as optical and electrical effects as well as singular components, for example, solar cells, glazings or the module frame. As a result, potential improvements can be identified easily and applied in practice. The CTM factors can change drastically depending on the choice of solar cell, module materials and the module assembly. “With a well-selected combination of materials and module design, an optimisation of all factors can even lead to a CTM > 100%, indicating a higher output as compared to the sum of all solar cells before integration,” says Ebert.
SmartCalc.CTM has a user-friendly interface with an accompanying operating manual. As well as the software license, the team at Fraunhofer ISE offers consulting and R&D support for analysing and optimising the simulation results. The software shall be continually developed in order to keep pace with future module assemblies.
