Solar cell assembly for matching power generation parameters

Abstract

A solar cell module and method for power generation parameter matching is provided. [Solution] The solar cell device includes a first solar cell assembly and a second solar cell assembly. The first solar cell assembly includes a first group of thin-film solar cells electrically connected in series and a second group of thin-film solar cells electrically connected in series. The second solar cell assembly includes a third group of thin-film solar cells electrically connected in series and a fourth group of thin-film solar cells electrically connected in series. The first and third groups have a common electrode. The electrical connection between the first solar cell assembly and the second solar cell assembly is configured to match the maximum power point voltage (Vmp) generated by the first and third groups with the maximum power point voltage (Vmp) generated by the second and fourth groups.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to solar cell modules and methods for power generation parameter matching. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of Related Art Tandem solar modules, which include thin-film solar cells stacked with other solar cells made from other materials, such as silicon, are a promising option for generating electricity. This is because the combination of materials in the construction allows for efficient power generation from a broader electromagnetic radiation spectrum than conventional solar cells. However, challenges arise due to the different power generation characteristics of thin-film solar cells and silicon (or other material) solar cells. For example, thin-film cells and silicon-based cells reach peak efficiency at very different electromagnetic radiation intensities, and the power generation characteristics of both materials change differently with temperature.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for an apparatus and method for using tandem solar modules for power generation that overcomes the above-mentioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments of the present disclosure describe a solar cell device assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode. The solar cell device assembly also includes a first plurality of solar cells and a second plurality of solar cells. Each solar cell of the first plurality of solar cells is electrically connected in series between the first electrode and the second electrode in a first direction. Each solar cell of the second plurality of solar cells is electrically connected in series between the first electrode and the third electrode in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0005] In some embodiments of the solar cell device assembly, each of the first plurality of solar cells includes a portion of the first contact layer, a portion of the second contact layer, and a portion of the absorber layer disposed between the portion of the contact layer and the portion of the second contact layer. In one or more embodiments, each of the second plurality of solar cells includes a portion of the first contact layer, a portion of the second contact layer, and a portion of the absorber layer disposed between the portion of the first contact layer and the portion of the second contact layer. In some embodiments, the first electrode includes planar ribbons disposed on a surface of the portion of the first contact layer of the first plurality of solar cells and the portion of the first contact layer of the second plurality of solar cells.

[0006] The present disclosure describes a solar cell device assembly including a first plurality of solar cells and a second plurality of solar cells. Each solar cell of the first plurality of solar cells is connected in series between a first end and a second end of the first plurality of solar cells. At least one solar cell of the first plurality of solar cells includes a first portion of a first contact layer disposed on a surface of a substrate, a first portion of an absorber layer disposed on the first portion of the first contact layer, and a first portion of a second contact layer disposed on the first portion of the absorber layer. The first portion of the first contact layer is disposed between two first P1 scribe lines. A first P2 scribe line is formed through the first portion of the absorber layer. A first P3 scribe line extends through the first portion of the second contact layer and the first portion of the absorber layer. The two first P1 scribe lines, the first P2 scribe line, and the first P3 scribe line are disposed in series in a first direction parallel to the surface of the substrate. Each solar cell of the second plurality of solar cells is connected in series between a first end and a second end of the second plurality of solar cells. At least one solar cell of the second plurality of solar cells includes a second portion of the first contact layer disposed on the surface of the substrate, a second portion of the absorber layer disposed on the second portion of the first contact layer, and a second portion of the second contact layer disposed on the second portion of the absorber layer. The second portion of the first contact layer is disposed between two second P1 scribe lines. The second P2 scribe line is formed through the second portion of the absorber layer. The second P3 scribe line extends through the second portion of the second contact layer and the second portion of the absorber layer. The two second P1 scribe lines, the second P2 scribe line, and the second P3 scribe line are arranged in series in a second direction parallel to the surface of the substrate and opposite to the first direction. A first electrode is electrically connected to the first ends of the first plurality of solar cells and the second plurality of solar cells. The second electrode is electrically connected to second ends of the first plurality of solar cells, and the third electrode is electrically connected to second ends of the second plurality of solar cells.

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure describe a solar cell device assembly including an external connection configured to be connected to an external connection of another type of solar cell module. The solar cell device assembly includes an anode electrode coupled to the external connection of the thin-film solar cell module and an absorber layer disposed between a first contact layer and a second contact layer. The anode electrode is configured to be coupled to a cathode electrode of the other type of solar cell module. A first scribe line of a first type defines a first opening in the first contact layer and is disposed on a first side of the anode electrode at a first distance from the anode electrode. A second scribe line of the first type defines a second opening in the first contact layer and is disposed on a second side of the anode electrode at a first distance from the anode electrode. A third scribe line of a second type defines a third opening in the absorber layer and is disposed on the first side of the anode electrode at a second distance from the anode electrode. A fourth scribe line of the second type defines a fourth opening in the absorber layer and is positioned a second distance from the anode electrode on a second side of the anode electrode.

[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure describe a solar cell device including a first solar cell assembly, a second solar cell assembly, and a common electrode. The first solar cell assembly includes a first group of thin-film solar cells and a second group of solar cells. The thin-film solar cells in the first group are electrically connected in series, and the solar cells in the second group are electrically connected in series. The second solar cell assembly includes a third group of thin-film solar cells and a fourth group of solar cells. The thin-film solar cells in the third group are electrically connected in series, and the solar cells in the fourth group are electrically connected in series. The solar cell device includes electrical connections between the first solar cell assembly and the second solar cell assembly. The electrical connections are configured to match the maximum power point voltages (Vmp) generated by the first and third groups with the maximum power point voltages (Vmp) generated by the second and fourth groups. The common electrode is electrically connected to the anode end of the first solar cell assembly and the anode end of the second solar cell assembly.

[0009] The present disclosure describes a solar cell device assembly including a first cell set, a second cell set, and an anode common to the first and second cell sets. The first cell set includes a first group of thin-film solar cells electrically connected in a first series and a second group of solar cells electrically connected in a second series. In the first cell set, the first series is electrically connected in parallel with the second series. The second cell set includes a third group of thin-film solar cells electrically connected in a third series and a fourth group of solar cells electrically connected in a fourth series. In the second cell set, the third series is electrically connected in parallel with the fourth series. The anode is disposed between the first cathode and the second cathode. The first cathode and the second cathode include an electrical connection that electrically connects the first cell set and the second cell set in parallel. The electrical connections are configured to match the maximum power point voltage (Vmp) generated by the first set of cells and the second set of cells.

[0010] An embodiment of the present disclosure describes a method that includes connecting a first solar module and a second solar module with an electrical connection. The first solar module includes a first group of thin-film solar cells and a second group of solar cells. The thin-film solar cells in the first group are electrically connected in series, and the solar cells in the second group are electrically connected in series. The second solar module includes a third group of thin-film solar cells and a fourth group of solar cells. The thin-film solar cells in the third group are electrically connected in series, and the solar cells in the fourth group are electrically connected in series. The method further includes disposing a common electrode between the first group and the third group. The common electrode electrically connects the first group and the third group. The electrical connection is configured to match a maximum power point voltage (Vmp) generated by the first group and the third group with a maximum power point voltage (Vmp) generated by the second group and the fourth group.

[0011] An embodiment of the present disclosure describes a solar cell device assembly including a first solar cell module and a second solar cell module. A first electrical circuit includes a first plurality of solar cell modules connected in series. The first solar cell module includes an absorber layer including a first material having a first optical bandgap. A second electrical circuit includes a second plurality of solar cell modules connected in series. The second solar cell module includes an absorber layer including a second material having a second optical bandgap smaller than the first optical bandgap. During operation, one of the second solar cell modules is positioned to receive electromagnetic radiation propagating through one of the first solar cell modules. The first electrical circuit and the second electrical circuit are connected in parallel. During operation, a first operating voltage generated by the first electrical circuit is different from a second operating voltage generated by the second electrical circuit.

[0012] The presently disclosed embodiment describes a solar cell device assembly including a first circuit and a second circuit. The first circuit electrically connects a first plurality of thin-film solar cell modules between a first positive node and a first negative node. The thin-film solar cell modules include a first material having a first optical bandgap. The first plurality of thin-film solar cell modules are connected in a parallel string. The second circuit electrically connects a second plurality of solar cell modules between a second positive node and a second negative node. The solar cell modules include a second material having a second optical bandgap smaller than the first optical bandgap. The second plurality of solar cell modules are connected in series. One of the solar cell modules is positioned to receive electromagnetic radiation propagating through one of the thin-film solar cell modules. An inverter is connected to the first positive node, the first negative node, the second positive node, and the second negative node. The inverter has a voltage rating higher than a first operating voltage generated by the first circuit and a second operating voltage generated by the second circuit.

[0013] An embodiment of the present disclosure describes a method including connecting thin-film solar cell modules in parallel in a first circuit. The thin-film solar cell modules have corresponding absorber layers, the absorber layers including a first material having a first optical bandgap. Each thin-film solar cell module includes a first number of thin-film solar cells connected in series. The method further includes connecting the solar cell modules in series in a second circuit. The solar cell modules have corresponding absorber layers, the absorber layers including a second material having a second optical bandgap smaller than the first optical bandgap. Each solar cell module includes a second number of solar cells connected in series. The method further includes connecting the first circuit and the second circuit in parallel to form a parallel circuit. An operating voltage of the parallel circuit is based on the least common multiple (LCM) of the first number and the second number. One solar cell module of the solar cell modules is positioned to receive electromagnetic radiation propagating through one thin-film solar cell module of the thin-film solar cell modules.

[0014] Embodiments of the present disclosure describe thin-film solar cells and solar cell device assemblies including the solar cells. The thin-film solar cells have corresponding absorber layers, the absorber layers including a first material. The solar cells are disposed below the thin-film solar cells such that one of the solar cells receives electromagnetic radiation propagating through one of the thin-film solar cells. The solar cells have corresponding absorber layers, the absorber layers including a second material. Electrical conductors are disposed between the thin-film solar cells and the solar cells. The electrical conductors form a first electrical path between an anode end of the thin-film solar cell and the anode end of the solar cell and a second electrical path between a cathode end of the thin-film solar cell and the cathode end of the solar cell. The first and second electrical paths are configured to match the voltages generated by the thin-film solar cells and the solar cells at a nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT).

[0015] An embodiment of the present disclosure describes a solar cell device including a set of first solar cells connected in series with corresponding absorber layers comprising a first material. The set of first solar cells connected in series are electrically connected in parallel. The solar cell device includes a second solar cell connected in series below the first solar cell, with one of the second solar cells being arranged to receive electromagnetic radiation propagating through the first solar cell. The second solar cell has a corresponding absorber layer, the absorber layer comprising a second material. The solar cell device further includes electrical conductors disposed between the first solar cell and the second solar cell. The electrical conductors form a first electrical path between the anode end of the first solar cell and the anode end of the second solar cell, and a second electrical path between the cathode end of the first solar cell and the cathode end of the second solar cell. The first electrical path and the second electrical path are configured to match voltages generated by the first solar cell and the second solar cell at a nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT).

[0016] An embodiment of the present disclosure describes a method that includes positioning solar cells below thin-film solar cells such that one of the solar cells receives electromagnetic radiation propagating through one of the thin-film solar cells. The thin-film solar cells have corresponding absorber layers including a first material, and the solar cells have corresponding absorber layers including a second material. The method further includes connecting the solar cells and the thin-film solar cells with an electrical connection configured to match voltages generated by the solar cells and the thin-film solar cells at a nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT). The electrical connection includes an anode electrode, and the anode electrode electrically connects a first group of thin-film solar cells having a first cathode electrode and a second group of thin-film solar cells having a second cathode electrode.

[0017] In order that the above-listed features of the present disclosure may be understood in detail, a more particular description of the present disclosure briefly summarized above may be had by reference to the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, however, only exemplary embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, as there may be other equally effective embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a group of thin-film solar cells and a group of solar cells connected in series. [Figure 1B] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a group of thin-film solar cells and a group of solar cells connected in parallel. [Figure 2A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a configuration in which a group of series-connected solar cells of a first module and a group of series-connected thin-film solar cells of a second module are connected in series, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first stacked module assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2C] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a generalized first stacked module assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a configuration in which a parallel set of series-connected solar cell groups of a first module is connected in series with a series-connected thin-film solar cell group of a second module, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a second stacked module assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3C] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a generalized second stacked module assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a configuration in which a parallel set of series-connected solar cells in a first module and a parallel set of series-connected thin-film solar cells in a second module are connected in parallel, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of a third stacked module assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4C] FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of a generalized third stacked module assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a configuration in which a parallel set of series-connected solar cells in a first module and a parallel set of series-connected thin-film solar cells in a second module are connected in parallel, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 2 illustrates the width of a thin-film solar cell, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] FIG. 10 shows a schematic diagram of a fourth stacked module assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a configuration in which a group of series-connected solar cells in a first module and a parallel set of series-connected thin-film solar cells in a second module are connected in parallel, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a fifth stacked module assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] 1 shows a schematic side view of a first thin-film solar module according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 7B illustrates a plan view of the first thin-film solar module shown in FIG. 7A, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] 1 shows a schematic side view of a second thin-film solar module according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 8B illustrates a plan view of the second thin-film solar module shown in FIG. 8A according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] 1 shows a schematic side view of a third thin-film solar module according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B]9B illustrates a plan view of the third thin-film solar module shown in FIG. 9A in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates an example of a combination of solar cell modules connected in series and thin-film solar cell modules connected in parallel separately at the string level, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for matching a maximum power point voltage (Vmp) in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] To facilitate understanding, wherever possible, identical reference numerals have been used to refer to identical elements common to the figures. It is assumed that elements and features of one embodiment may be usefully incorporated in other embodiments unless otherwise noted.

[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally describe solar cell modules and methods for matching power generation parameters when exposed to electromagnetic radiation. In some embodiments, a solar cell device includes a first solar cell module and a second solar cell module. In some embodiments, the first solar cell module includes a first group of thin-film solar cells and a second group of solar cells. In one or more embodiments, the first group of thin-film solar cells includes amorphous silicon (a-Si) solar cells, cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells, copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) solar cells, organic photovoltaic cells (OPV), perovskite solar cells, kesterite (CZTS) solar cells, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC), quantum dot solar cells, or other types of solar cells. In various embodiments, the second group of solar cells includes monocrystalline silicon solar cells, polycrystalline silicon solar cells, thin-film silicon solar cells, CIGS-containing solar cells, CdTe-containing solar cells, or other types of solar cells. In certain embodiments, the second group includes half-cut silicon M10 cells. In some embodiments, the solar cells in the second group may be electrically connected in series, in parallel, or in a configuration in which a first series is connected in parallel with a second series.

[0021] In some embodiments, thin-film solar cells (e.g., perovskite solar cells) in a first group of solar cells may be arranged in a stacked configuration with solar cells (e.g., silicon-containing solar cells) in a second group of solar cells located below the thin-film solar cells, thereby allowing the second group of solar cells to receive electromagnetic radiation, often referred to herein as "light," propagating through the thin-film solar cells. The thin-film solar cells in the first group may be electrically connected in series, in parallel, or as a series-connected array connected in parallel with other series-connected thin-film solar cell arrays. In various embodiments, the number of thin-film solar cells in the first group of solar cells may be greater than, equal to, or less than the number of solar cells in the second group of solar cells (e.g., including silicon-based solar cells).

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the first solar module coupled to the second solar module includes a third group of thin-film solar cells and a fourth group of solar cells. In certain embodiments, a solar cell device including the first and second solar cell modules includes a common electrode for the first and third groups. In some embodiments, the electrical connection between the first and second solar cell modules is configured to match the maximum power point voltages (V) generated by the first and third groups and the second and fourth groups. Matching V allows the solar cell devices to generate power at a utility (i.e., power distribution entity (LSE)) scale. In some embodiments, even if the system-level voltage of the inverter is limited to, for example, 1,500 V, it is possible to connect a significant number of solar cell devices in series to generate AC power.

[0023] 1A is a schematic diagram showing a group of thin-film solar cells and a group of solar cells connected in series. As shown in FIG. 1A, an equivalent circuit 104-2 includes a first group of first solar cells, which includes a first solar cell 106 and a second solar cell 108. The equivalent circuit 104-2 calculates a current I flowing through both the first solar cell 106 and the second solar cell 108. s In addition, since the first solar cell 106 and the second solar cell 108 are connected in series, a voltage V s is applied to the first and second solar cells 106, 108. In some embodiments, the first and second solar cells 106, 108 may be silicon-based solar cells, such as monocrystalline silicon solar cells or polycrystalline silicon solar cells, or CIGS-containing solar cells, or other types of solar cells. In other embodiments, the first and second solar cells 106, 108 may be thin-film silicon solar cells or other types of solar cells. Generally, the first and second solar cells 106, 108 are configured to generate a current / voltage upon exposure to photons via the photovoltaic effect. The first and second solar cells 106, 108 include an absorber layer (not shown) including a first material (e.g., a silicon layer) having a first density and a first optical bandgap (e.g., about 1.15 eV). In various examples, the first density may be based on mass or volume.

[0024] 1A includes an equivalent circuit 110-2 that includes a first group of thin-film solar cells, the first group of thin-film solar cells including a first thin-film solar cell 112, a second thin-film solar cell 114, a third thin-film solar cell 116, and a fourth thin-film solar cell 118. In the equivalent circuit 110-2, a voltage V pThe first, second, third, and fourth thin-film solar cells 112, 114, 116, 118 each have an absorber layer (not shown), the absorber layer including a second material (e.g., a perovskite layer), the second material having a second density and a second optical bandgap (e.g., about 1.4-1.8 eV, e.g., 1.6 eV). In one or more examples, the second density may be based on mass or volume. In some embodiments, the second density is greater than the first density and the second optical bandgap is greater than the first optical bandgap. The current I p flows through a first thin-film solar cell 112, a second thin-film solar cell 114, a third thin-film solar cell 116, and a fourth thin-film solar cell 118.

[0025] 1A also includes an equivalent circuit 120-2 in which a first group of solar cells including the first solar cell 106 and the second solar cell 108 are connected in series with a first group of thin-film solar cells including the first thin-film solar cell 112, the second thin-film solar cell 114, the third thin-film solar cell 116, and the fourth thin-film solar cell 118. In some embodiments, the first, second, third, and fourth thin-film solar cells 112, 114, 116, 118 are arranged in a stacked configuration above the first and second solar cells 106, 108, allowing light to pass through the first, second, third, and fourth thin-film solar cells 112, 114, 116, 118 and then be received by the first and second solar cells 106, 108. In the equivalent circuit 120-2, a voltage V is applied across the first thin-film solar cell 112, the second thin-film solar cell 114, the third thin-film solar cell 116, the fourth thin-film solar cell 118, the first solar cell 106, and the second solar cell 108. t is applied. Current I t flows through the first, second, third and fourth thin-film solar cells 112, 114, 116, 118 and the first and second solar cells 106, 108, respectively.

[0026] 1B is a schematic diagram showing a group of thin-film solar cells and a group of solar cells connected in parallel. As shown, an equivalent circuit 122-2 includes a set of two solar cell groups, where a first group of solar cells includes a first solar cell 106 and a second group of solar cells includes a second solar cell 108. In the equivalent circuit 122-2, a current I s is equal to the sum of the current flowing through the first solar cell 106 and the current flowing through the second solar cell 108. Therefore, the same current I s flows through both the first solar cell 106 and the second solar cell 108, in the equivalent circuit 122-2, s flows through the first solar cell 106, and a current I s A second portion of the voltage V flows through the second solar cell 108. In the equivalent circuit 122-2, the voltage V s is applied across each of the first solar cell 106 and the second solar cell 108, whereas in the equivalent circuit 104-2, the voltage V s is applied across the first solar cell 106 and the second solar cell 108.

[0027] FIG. 1B includes an equivalent circuit 124-2, which includes a set of two groups of thin-film solar cells, where the first group of thin-film solar cells includes a first thin-film solar cell 112 and a second thin-film solar cell 114, and the second group of thin-film solar cells includes a third thin-film solar cell 116 and a fourth thin-film solar cell 118. As shown in the equivalent circuit 124-2, the first thin-film solar cell 112 and the second thin-film solar cell 114 are connected in a first series, and the third thin-film solar cell 116 and the fourth thin-film solar cell 118 are connected in a second series. The first group of thin-film solar cells and the second group of thin-film solar cells are connected in parallel. The voltage V p is applied across the first thin-film solar cell 112 and the second thin-film solar cell 114. pis also applied across the third thin-film solar cell 116 and the fourth thin-film solar cell 118. p is equal to the sum of the first current flowing through the first thin-film solar cell 112 and the second thin-film solar cell 114 and the second current flowing through the third thin-film solar cell 116 and the fourth thin-film solar cell 118.

[0028] 1B also includes an equivalent circuit 126-2 that includes two thin-film solar cell groups and two solar cell groups. The two thin-film solar cell groups include a first group of thin-film solar cells and a second group of thin-film solar cells, where the first group of thin-film solar cells includes the first thin-film solar cell 112 and the second thin-film solar cell 114, and the second group of thin-film solar cells includes the third thin-film solar cell 116 and the fourth thin-film solar cell 118. The two solar cell groups include the first group of solar cells that includes the first solar cell 106 and the second group of solar cells that includes the second solar cell 108. In this example, a first module including two groups of thin-film solar cells including first, second, third, and fourth thin-film solar cells 112, 114, 116, 118 is disposed in a stacked configuration above a second module including first and second solar cells 106, 108, allowing light to pass through the first module and then be received by the first and second solar cells 106, 108 disposed in the second module. In equivalent circuit 126-2, a voltage V t is applied across the first thin-film solar cell 112 and the second thin-film solar cell 114, and is also applied across the third thin-film solar cell 116 and the fourth thin-film solar cell 118. Furthermore, a voltage V t is applied across the first solar cell 106 and across the second solar cell 108. The current I tis equal to the sum of the first current flowing through the first thin-film solar cell 112 and the second thin-film solar cell 114, the second current flowing through the third thin-film solar cell 116 and the fourth thin-film solar cell 118, the third current flowing through the first solar cell 106, and the fourth current flowing through the second solar cell 108.

[0029] Using the first solar cell 106, the second solar cell 108, and the first, second, third, and fourth thin-film solar cells 112, 114, 116, and 118 in a stacked configuration for power generation presents several challenges. These challenges include the inconsistency in form factors between solar cells and thin-film solar cells. One example of a solar cell form factor is an 1134 mm by 2382 mm panel (module) using M10 wafers. An 1134 mm by 2382 mm panel typically includes one string of 72 cells connected in series, generating an open circuit voltage (Voc) of approximately 50 V, with a slightly lower operating voltage. A variation of this example includes half-cut cells, forming two parallel strings of 72 half-cut cells, thereby generating an open circuit voltage (Voc) of approximately 50 V. Another example of a form factor includes shingled cells, often forming five or six strings of 72 shingled cells. As wafer size increases to M12, the panel (module) dimensions increase to 1303 mm by 2384 mm and typically contain 132 half-cut cells, forming two parallel strings of 66 cells. Two parallel strings of 66 cells generate approximately 45 V at Voc and a correspondingly lower operating voltage. However, in one example of a thin-film solar cell, a perovskite solar cell has a form factor of 1216 mm by 2300 mm, contains 268 cells in series, and generates approximately 225 V at Voc. Therefore, the form factor and magnitude of the generated voltage at Voc differ significantly between solar cells and perovskite solar cells.

[0030] Challenges in using thin-film solar cells, such as solar cells and perovskite solar cells, in power generation applications include voltage limitations at the inverter system level. Typically, inverter system voltages are limited to approximately 1500 V. Due to this limitation, the number of 1216 mm x 2300 mm perovskite solar cell panels (modules) that can be connected in series without exceeding 1500 V at Voc is less than seven. While this is typical for CdTe applications, it is far fewer than the number of silicon-based solar cell panels (modules) that can be connected in series without exceeding 1500 V, potentially requiring non-standard design and installation techniques. For example, utility-scale modules typically have strings containing 25 or more solar modules. This is due to the installation and maintenance costs associated with each module. Generally, the number of modules in a string increases as the inverter system-level voltage limit increases and decreases as the voltage limit decreases.

[0031] Challenges in using thin-film solar cells, such as solar cells and perovskite solar cells, in power generation applications include differences in the behavior of solar cells and perovskite solar cells in stacked configurations. In one example of a solar cell, a silicon-based solar cell is shaded by approximately 33–50% of the total solar intensity in a stacked configuration, which changes the expected behavior of the underlying solar cells. Silicon-based and perovskite solar cells also exhibit different electrical behavior with respect to light intensity. For example, perovskite solar cells reach peak efficiency at light intensities less than 1 sun, typically in the range of 0.2–0.8 suns. However, silicon-based solar cells reach peak efficiency at full sunshine, and their Voc and maximum power point voltage (Vmp) decrease at light intensities less than 1 sun, especially more rapidly at light intensities less than 0.25 suns. Furthermore, silicon-based and perovskite solar cells exhibit different behavior with respect to temperature. The voltage generated by perovskite-based solar cells varies relatively slowly with temperature, in some cases by about -0.13 percent (%) per degree Celsius relative to the ideal value. However, the voltage generated by silicon-based solar cells varies relatively quickly, for example, by about -0.26 percent (%) per degree Celsius relative to the ideal value.

[0032] The difference in degradation rates presents another challenge when using silicon-based and perovskite-based solar cells for power generation applications. Silicon-based solar cells tend to degrade more slowly than perovskite-based solar cells, especially in stacked structures, where perovskite-based solar cells protect the silicon-based solar cells from some degradation factors, such as ultraviolet light. In terms of matching power generation parameters in power generation applications, degradation of perovskite-based solar cells can lead to a mismatch in short-circuit current (Isc) faster than Voc.

[0033] Example of matching power generation parameters A. Current matching example FIG. 2A shows a schematic diagram 200 illustrating a series-connected configuration of multiple series-connected solar cell groups in a first module and series-connected thin-film solar cells in a second module. While the specific thin-film solar cell example is described with respect to perovskite-based solar cells, it should be understood that the specific example is applicable to other thin-film solar cells. As shown, the schematic diagram 200 includes six series-connected solar cell groups 202 in the first module, series-connected perovskite-based solar cell groups 204 in the second module, and a stacked module assembly 206 including the first module and the second module. In the stacked module assembly 206, the first module may be positioned below the second module, such that photons passing through the perovskite-based solar cell groups 204 can be received by the solar cell groups 202. In some embodiments, the solar cell groups 202 in the first module include 144 half-cut M10 cells with a surface area of ​​approximately 165.3 square centimeters. In one or more examples, when the solar cell group 202 is shielded by the perovskite solar cell group 204 of the second module, the solar cell group 202 generates a short circuit current (Isc) of approximately 2.23 amperes (A) and a maximum power point current (Imp) of approximately 2.14 amperes (A).

[0034] In various embodiments, the perovskite solar cell group 204 includes a glass layer having dimensions of approximately 1134 millimeters (mm) by 2382 mm. In some embodiments, the glass layer is common to the half-cut M10 cells included in the solar cell group 202. In certain embodiments, the stacked module assembly 206 has a 15 mm border that does not include perovskite solar cells, reserved for edge seals. In these embodiments, the resulting perovskite region dimensions are approximately 1104 mm by 2352 mm.

[0035] In some embodiments, the perovskite solar cells 204 have a current density of about 21.83 mA / cm2 In these embodiments, current matching with the group of solar cells 202 can be achieved by using, for example, a perovskite solar cell having a width of about 4.45 millimeters that generates an Imp of about 2.14 amperes (A). This current matching results in the group of perovskite solar cells 204 including, in some examples, 248 perovskite cells.

[0036] In various embodiments, current matching between the solar cell group 202 and the perovskite solar cell group 204 allows for series electrical connections in the stacked module assembly 206. As an example, the series electrical connections in the first module may include a first series connection 208 between a first group of 24 series connected solar cells (e.g., series connected in the −Y direction) and a second group of 24 series connected solar cells (e.g., series connected in the +Y direction), a second series connection 210 between the second group of 24 series connected solar cells and a third group of 24 series connected solar cells (e.g., series connected in the −Y direction), a third series connection 211 between the third group of 24 series connected solar cells and a fourth group of 24 series connected solar cells (e.g., series connected in the +Y direction), and a fourth series connection 212 between the third group of 24 series connected solar cells and a fourth group of 24 series connected solar cells (e.g., series connected in the +Y direction). The solar cell group 202 includes a third series connection 212 between the fourth group of 24 series-connected solar cells and the fifth group of 24 series-connected solar cells (e.g., series connected in the -Y direction), a fourth series connection 214 between the fifth group of 24 series-connected solar cells and the sixth group of 24 series-connected solar cells (e.g., series connected in the +Y direction), a fifth series connection 216 between the fifth group of 24 solar cells and the sixth group of 24 series-connected solar cells (e.g., series connected in the +Y direction), and a sixth series connection 218 between the sixth group of 24 series-connected solar cells and the series-connected perovskite solar cell group 204 (e.g., series connected in the +X direction). The sixth series connection 218 is configured to electrically connect the solar cell group 202 of the first module and the perovskite solar cell group 204 of the second module in series. As an example, the solar cell group 202 can generate an open circuit voltage (Voc) of approximately 100.8 V, and the perovskite solar cell group 204 can generate a Voc of approximately 272.8 V. This causes the stacked module assembly 206 to generate approximately 373.6V at Voc and approximately 2.14A at Imp.

[0037] 2B shows a schematic diagram 201 of a first stacked module assembly. The schematic diagram 201 represents an equivalent circuit of a stacked module assembly 206. As shown, six solar cell groups 220-225, each of which has 24 solar cells (e.g., S1-S24) connected in series, in the first module are connected in series with 31 perovskite solar cells 226-257 connected in series in the second module.

[0038] FIG. 2C shows a schematic diagram 201′ of a generalized first stacked module assembly. The first module includes “n” series-connected cells, where the number of series-connected cells can range from 1 to “n,” where “n” is a first integer corresponding to the number of series-connected S cells included in the first module. The second module includes “m” series-connected cells, where the number of series-connected cells can range from 1 to “m,” where “m” is a second integer corresponding to the number of series-connected P cells included in the second module. In one or more examples, n may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or an integer greater than 5, greater than 10, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In various examples, m may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or an integer greater than 5, greater than 10, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100.

[0039] 3A shows a schematic diagram 300 illustrating a configuration in which a parallel set of series-connected solar cells in a first module are connected in series with a series-connected set of thin-film solar cells in a second module. While specific thin-film solar cell examples are described with respect to perovskite solar cells, it should be understood that these examples are applicable to other thin-film solar cells. The diagram 300 is shown as including a parallel set of series-connected solar cells 302 in a first module, a series-connected set of perovskite solar cells 304 in a second module, and a stacked module assembly 306 including the first and second modules. In the stacked module assembly 306, the first module may be positioned below the second module such that photons passing through the perovskite solar cells 304 can be received by the solar cells 302. In some embodiments, the group of solar cells 302 of the first module may include 144 half-cut M10 cells, approximately 165.3 square centimeters in area, included in the group of solar cells 202. In one or more embodiments, the group of solar cells 302 of the first module may include two parallel groups of 72 half-cut M10 cells connected in series, for a total of 144 half-cut M10 cells. In particular embodiments, a first set of the first group of 72 half-cut M10 cells may be electrically connected in series with the group of perovskite solar cells 304 of the second module via a first series connection 308, and a second set of the second group of 72 half-cut M10 cells may also be electrically connected in series with the group of perovskite solar cells 304 of the second module via a second series connection 310.

[0040] In one example, a first set of 72 half-cut M10 cells includes a first group (G1) of 24 series-connected solar cells, a second group (G2) of 24 series-connected solar cells, and a third group (G3) of 24 series-connected solar cells, which are interconnected by series connections 316 and 318. A second set of 72 half-cut M10 cells includes a fourth group (G4) of 24 series-connected solar cells, a fifth group (G5) of 24 series-connected solar cells, and a sixth group (G6) of 24 series-connected solar cells, which are interconnected by series connections 312 and 314. In the example shown, the series-connected solar cell groups G1, G2, and G3 that make up the first set are electrically connected in parallel with the series-connected solar cell groups G4, G5, and G6 that make up the second set.

[0041] In one example, the parallel set of series-connected solar cells 302 generates an Isc of approximately 4.46 A and an Imp of approximately 4.28 A. In some embodiments, to match the current of the parallel set of series-connected solar cells 302 in the first module, the width of the perovskite cells in the series-connected perovskite solar cells 304 in the second module is approximately 8.7 millimeters (e.g., 127 perovskite cells) for Isc matching and approximately 8.9 millimeters (e.g., 124 perovskite cells) for Imp matching. In one example, the parallel set of series-connected solar cells 302 generates a Voc of approximately 50.4 V, and the series-connected perovskite solar cells 304 generates a Voc of approximately 136.4 V. In one example, the stacked module assembly 306 generates a Voc of approximately 186.8 V and an Imp of approximately 4.28 A. Compared to stacked module assembly 206, which generates approximately 373.6 V at Voc and approximately 2.14 A at Imp, stacked module assembly 306 generates 50 percent less voltage at Voc. Therefore, for a given inverter voltage limit, approximately twice as many stacked module assemblies 306 can be installed as stacked module assemblies 206.

[0042] 3B shows a schematic diagram 301 of a second stacked module assembly. Schematic diagram 301 represents an equivalent circuit of stacked module assembly 306. As shown, a first set of three groups 320-322, each containing 24 series-connected solar cells, are connected in parallel with a second set of three groups 323-325, each also containing 24 series-connected solar cells. The first three groups 320-322 and the second three groups 323-325 of the first module are connected in series with the 12 series-connected perovskite solar cells 326-337 of the second module.

[0043] FIG. 3C shows a generalized schematic diagram 301′ of a second stacked module assembly. The first module includes a group of series-connected cells “Sxa,” where “x” is an integer representing a first number of series-connected S cells included in a first parallel group included in the first module, where x varies from 1 to n. The first module also includes a second group of series-connected cells “Syb,” where “y” is an integer generally representing a second number of series-connected S cells included in the first module, where y varies from 1 to v. The second module includes a group of series-connected cells “Pz,” where “z” is an integer representing a third number of series-connected P cells included in the second module, where z varies from 1 to m. In one or more examples, n and v can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or integers greater than 5, greater than 10, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In various examples, m can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or an integer greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100.

[0044] B. Voltage Matching Example As mentioned above, current matching is a technique for optimizing power generation that involves adjusting the currents generated by different components (e.g., solar cells) in a power generation circuit so that they are approximately the same. Voltage matching is another technique for optimizing power generation that involves adjusting the voltages generated by different components (e.g., solar cells) in a power generation circuit so that they are approximately the same. Ideally, both current matching and voltage matching are performed to optimize power generation efficiency, but in power generation using tandem modules that stack thin-film solar cells with other types of solar cells made from different materials, matching both current and voltage may not be practical due to the differences in the electrical properties of the materials.

[0045] 4A illustrates a schematic diagram 400 of a parallel set of series-connected solar cells in a first module connected in parallel with a parallel group of series-connected thin-film solar cells in a second module. While specific thin-film solar cell examples are described with respect to perovskite-based solar cells, it should be noted that these examples are applicable to other thin-film solar cells. As shown, the schematic diagram 400 includes a parallel set of series-connected solar cells 402 in a first module, a parallel group of series-connected perovskite-based solar cells 404 in a second module, and a stacked module assembly 406 including the first module and the second module. In the stacked module assembly 406, the first module may be positioned below the second module such that photons passing through the perovskite-based solar cells 404 can be received by the solar cells 402.

[0046] In one or more examples, the first module may include 72 series-connected half-cut M10 cells in each of two parallel sets divided into three groups, for a total of 144 half-cut M10 cells. In certain embodiments, the 72 series-connected half-cut M10 cell sets are electrically connected in parallel with the series-connected perovskite solar cell groups 404 of the second module by a first parallel connection 408 (e.g., external connection) and a second parallel connection 410.

[0047] As an example, a first set of 72 series-connected half-cut M10 cells includes a first group (G1), a second group (G2), and a third group (G3) of 24 series-connected solar cells, which are connected by series connections 416 and 418. A second set of 72 series-connected half-cut M10 cells includes a fourth group (G4), a fifth group (G5), and a sixth group (G6) of 24 series-connected solar cells, which are connected by series connections 412 and 414.

[0048] As an example, when 144 half-cut M10 cells, each with a surface area of ​​approximately 165.3 square centimeters, are shaded by the perovskite solar cell group 404 of the second module, each half-cut M10 cell generates approximately 0.711 V at V and approximately 0.592 V at maximum power point voltage (V) at nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT). In this example, the perovskite solar cell group 404 includes a glass layer with dimensions of approximately 1134 millimeters by 2382 millimeters. The glass layer may be common to the half-cut M10 cells included in the solar cell group 402 of the first module. In this example, the stacked module assembly 406 has a 15-millimeter-wide edge that does not include perovskite solar cells, which is an area reserved for an edge seal, resulting in a perovskite region with dimensions of approximately 1104 millimeters by 2352 millimeters. While a 15-millimeter edge is described, it should be noted that in some examples, the edge reserved for the edge seal may be less than or greater than 15 millimeters. In one or more embodiments, each perovskite solar cell generates a Voc of approximately 1.093 V and a Vmp of approximately 0.891 V at NOCT. In these embodiments, the group of perovskite solar cells 404 in the second module can be voltage-matched to the group of solar cells 402 in the first module with perovskite solar cells having a desired width, e.g., a width of approximately 4.6 millimeters. For example, with a width of approximately 4.6 millimeters, 240 perovskite solar cells can be voltage-matched to the group of solar cells 402 in the first module within the second module, which can be divided into five parallel strings (groups) of 48 perovskite solar cells.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, a first group of 48 series-connected perovskite solar cells is electrically connected in parallel to a node of another parallel group of series-connected perovskite solar cells 404 by a third parallel connection 420. In the illustrated example, a second group of 48 series-connected perovskite solar cells is electrically connected in parallel to the node by a fourth parallel connection 422. Similarly, a third group of 48 series-connected perovskite solar cells is electrically connected in parallel to the node by a fifth parallel connection 424, the fourth group is electrically connected in parallel to the node by a sixth parallel connection 426, and the fifth group is electrically connected in parallel to the node by a seventh parallel connection 428.

[0050] In some embodiments, N sets of M series-connected solar cells can be electrically connected in parallel, where N and M are integers and M is greater than N. In one or more examples, N can be an integer of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or greater than 5. In various examples, M can be an integer greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In one or more embodiments, O groups of D series-connected thin-film solar cells can be electrically connected in parallel, where O and D are integers. In some examples, O can be an integer of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or greater than 9. In one or more examples, D can be an integer greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In certain embodiments, N sets can be electrically connected in parallel with O groups, as shown in the examples above. In this example, N is 2, M is 72, O is 5, and D is 48, with the N set connected in parallel with the O group by first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh parallel connections 408, 410, 420, 422, 424, 426, and 428. Generally, the electrical conductors form a first electrical path between the cathode end of the solar cell group 402 and the cathode end of the perovskite solar cell group 404, and a second electrical path between the anode end of the solar cell group 402 and the anode end of the perovskite solar cell group 404. The first and second electrical paths are configured to match the voltages generated by the solar cell group 402 and the perovskite solar cell group 404 at the NOCT.

[0051] Some embodiments of the present disclosure include setting a target output voltage for the stacked module assembly 406 based on constraints such as the inverter's system-level voltage and the supply-side power requirements. The target output voltage limits the number of module assemblies (e.g., multiple instances of the stacked module assembly 406) that can be connected in series without exceeding the inverter's system-level voltage (e.g., 1500 V). In various embodiments, a first target output voltage may maximize power generation capacity (e.g., wattage) while sacrificing generated energy (e.g., watt-hours), and a second target output voltage may maximize generated energy (e.g., watt-hours) while sacrificing generated capacity (e.g., wattage). For example, the first target output voltage may be matched to V or V under standard test conditions (STC), and the second target output voltage may be matched to V or V under NOCT conditions. The supply-side power requirements guide which of the first and second target output voltages should be set. For a utility (i.e., electric utility entity (LSE)) that experiences peak demand during the daytime in the summer (e.g., due to power demand for air conditioning), the first target output voltage may be preferable to the second target output voltage because the stacked module assembly 406 may contribute power generation capacity to meet the peak demand (and reserve margin). However, for a utility that experiences peak demand during the winter (e.g., due to power demand for heating at night), the second target output voltage may be preferable to the first target output voltage.

[0052] After determining the target output voltage of the stacked module assembly 406, dimensions of each solar cell and each thin-film solar cell can be calculated based on the target output voltage. The solar cell dimensions are configured to generate a first voltage by receiving electromagnetic radiation (e.g., light) of a first intensity (e.g., a first light intensity). The thin-film solar cell dimensions are configured to generate a second voltage by receiving electromagnetic radiation of a second intensity, where the first intensity is received by the solar cell after a portion of the second intensity (e.g., approximately 50-67% of the full sun intensity) is absorbed by the thin-film solar cell as the electromagnetic radiation passes through the thin-film solar cell. In some embodiments, the solar cell dimensions are calculated based on a series electrical connection of at least one solar cell. In one or more embodiments, the thin-film solar cell dimensions are calculated based on a series electrical connection of at least one thin-film solar cell. In various embodiments, the solar cell dimensions and the thin-film solar cell dimensions are calculated based on at least one string of solar cells connected in series and at least one string of thin-film solar cells connected in series connected in parallel.

[0053] In one example, the stacked module assembly 406 generates approximately 52.4 V at Voc. In this example, the stacked module assembly 406 generates approximately 16.26 A at Imp. Notably, with a Voc of approximately 52.4 volts, approximately 28 stacked module assemblies 406 can be implemented in series (e.g., for AC power generation) even in situations where the inverter system-level voltage is limited to approximately 1500 volts. In some examples, matching voltage may be preferable to matching current for matching power generation parameters. Photovoltaic and perovskite solar cells have been observed to degrade Isc faster than Voc. Therefore, over the 25-year lifespan of a panel, Isc is likely to mismatch at a faster rate than Voc.

[0054] 4B shows a schematic diagram 401 of a third stacked module assembly. Schematic diagram 401 represents an equivalent circuit of stacked module assembly 406. For example, as shown in the figure, a first module includes a set of three groups 430-432, each having 24 series-connected solar cells, connected in parallel with a set of three groups 433-435, each having 24 series-connected solar cells. The set of three groups 430-432 and the set of three groups 433-435 are connected in parallel with five parallel groups of perovskite solar cells (436-441, 442-447, 448-453, 454-459, 460-465) in the second module, each connected in series. In this example, as shown in Figure 4B, each of the five groups (436-441, 442-447, 448-453, 454-459, 460-465) includes six series-connected perovskite solar cells. In some cases, each of the five groups (436-441, 442-447, 448-453, 454-459, 460-465) may include 5 or more, 10 or more, 25 or more, 50 or more, or 100 or more series-connected perovskite solar cells.

[0055] FIG. 4C shows a generalized third stacked module assembly schematic 401′, which is useful for broadly illustrating various variations in solar cell connection configurations, such as those shown in FIGS. 4B, 5C, and 6B. A first module may include a series-connected group of cells designated “Sxa,” where “x” is a first integer corresponding to the number of first series-connected cells in a parallel-connected group of series-connected solar cells included in the first module, and x varies from 1 to n. The first module may further include one or more second series-connected groups of cells designated “Syb,” where “y” is a second integer corresponding to approximately the number of second series-connected cells included in the first module, and y varies from 1 to v. The second module may include a series-connected group of perovskite cells designated “Pza,” where “z” is a third integer corresponding to the number of first series-connected P cells included in each of one or more parallel-connected groups included in the second module, and z varies from 1 to c. The second module may further include one or more second series-connected cell groups designated "Pwb," where "w" is a fourth integer generally corresponding to the number of fourth series-connected P cells included in the second module, with w varying from 1 to m. By way of example, n and / or v may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or an integer greater than 5, greater than 10, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In various examples, c and / or m may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or an integer greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100.

[0056] FIG. 5A shows a schematic diagram 500 in which a parallel set of series-connected solar cells in a first module is connected in parallel with a parallel set of series-connected thin-film solar cells in a second module. While specific thin-film solar cell examples are described with respect to perovskite solar cells, it should be understood that these specific examples also apply to other thin-film solar cells. As shown in FIG. 5A, the schematic diagram 500 includes a parallel set of series-connected solar cells 502 in a first module, a parallel set of series-connected perovskite solar cells 504 in a second module, and a stacked module assembly 506 including the first module and the second module. In the stacked module assembly 506, the first module may be positioned below the second module such that photons passing through the perovskite solar cells 504 can be received by the solar cells 502.

[0057] In one or more examples, the parallel set of solar cells 502 of the first module may include two parallel sets of 72 series-connected half-cut M10 cells each, for a total of 144 series-connected half-cut M10 cells. In some embodiments, the first set of 72 series-connected half-cut M10 cells is electrically connected in parallel with the parallel group of series-connected perovskite solar cells 504 of the second module by a first parallel connection 508. In particular embodiments, the second set of 72 series-connected half-cut M10 cells is electrically connected in parallel with the group of series-connected perovskite solar cells 504 of the second module by a second parallel connection 510.

[0058] In some embodiments, the first set of 72 series-connected half-cut M10 cells includes a first group of 24 series-connected solar cells, a second group of 24 series-connected solar cells, and a third group of 24 series-connected solar cells. In one or more embodiments, the first group of 24 series-connected solar cells is electrically connected in series with the second group of 24 series-connected solar cells by a first series connection 512. In various embodiments, the second group of 24 series-connected solar cells is electrically connected in series with the third group of 24 series-connected solar cells by a second series connection 514.

[0059] In one or more embodiments, the second group of 72 series-connected half-cut M10 cells includes a fourth group of 24 series-connected solar cells, a fifth group of 24 series-connected solar cells, and a sixth group of 24 series-connected solar cells. In some embodiments, the fourth group of 24 series-connected solar cells is electrically connected in series with the fifth group of 24 series-connected solar cells by a third series connection 516. In particular embodiments, the fifth group of 24 series-connected solar cells is electrically connected in series with the sixth group of 24 series-connected solar cells by a fourth series connection 518.

[0060] FIG. 5B shows a diagram 501 illustrating perovskite solar cells 560 (e.g., cells P1 and P2 in FIG. 5C ) having a width “W” disposed adjacent to a scribe area 558. The scribe lines disposed within the scribe area 558 include scribe lines (e.g., scribe lines P3, P2, and P1 within scribe area 718-1) configured to enable series connection between the perovskite solar cells 560, as described below. The illustrated representation 501 shows a portion of two of the perovskite solar cells shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C . To reduce the number of parallel strings of perovskite solar cells included in a series-connected parallel group of perovskite solar cells 504, the series-connected parallel group may include perovskite solar cells whose width “W” in the direction of the series connection exceeds about 4.6 millimeters. In one or more embodiments, a parallel set of series-connected perovskite solar cells 504 may be voltage matched to a parallel set of series-connected solar cells 502 using perovskite solar cells with a width "W" of about 5.75 millimeters. In various embodiments, by increasing the width "W" of the perovskite solar cells in the series direction from about 4.6 millimeters to about 5.75 millimeters, a parallel set of series-connected perovskite solar cells 504 may be voltage matched to a parallel set of series-connected solar cells 502 using, for example, 192 perovskite solar cells divided into four parallel strings / sets of 48 series-connected solar cells each.

[0061] As an example, a first group of 48 series-connected perovskite solar cells is electrically connected in parallel to a node of the parallel set of parallel-connected perovskite solar cells 504 by a third parallel connection 520. In the illustrated example, a second group of 48 series-connected perovskite solar cells is electrically connected in parallel to the node by a fourth parallel connection 522. In certain embodiments, a third group of 48 series-connected perovskite solar cells is electrically connected in parallel to the node by a fifth parallel connection 524. As an example, a fourth group of 48 series-connected perovskite solar cells is electrically connected in parallel to the node by a sixth parallel connection 526.

[0062] In various embodiments, N sets of M series-connected solar cell groups may be electrically connected in parallel, where N and M are integers and M is greater than N. In some examples, N may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or an integer greater than 5. Also, in one or more examples, M may be an integer greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In some embodiments, O sets of D series-connected thin-film solar cell groups may be electrically connected in parallel, where O and D are integers. In some examples, O may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or an integer greater than 9. In one or more examples, D may be an integer greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In certain embodiments, N sets are electrically connected in parallel with O groups, such as when N is 2, M is 72, O is 4, and D is 48, as shown in the example above. The N sets are then connected in parallel with the O groups by first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth parallel connections 508, 510, 520, 522, 524, 526.

[0063] Some embodiments of the present disclosure include a connection such that a plurality of series-connected solar cells configured to generate a first voltage upon receiving electromagnetic radiation (e.g., light) at a first intensity (e.g., a first light intensity) are connected to a plurality of series-connected thin-film solar cells configured to generate a second voltage upon receiving electromagnetic radiation at a second intensity, where the first intensity is received by the plurality of series-connected thin-film solar cells after a portion of the electromagnetic radiation is absorbed by the thin-film solar cells as it passes through the plurality of series-connected solar cells. Each thin-film solar cell also has a width “W” in the direction of the series connection, which allows the first voltage to be matched to the second voltage. In other words, by adjusting the width “W” of the thin-film solar cells during the manufacturing process (e.g., scribe line spacing), the stacked module assembly 506 can be tuned to produce the same or similar power generation output for a known or expected voltage generated by the stacked module assembly 406.

[0064] Similar to stacked module assembly 406, stacked module assembly 506 generates approximately 52.4 V at Voc. In some embodiments, stacked module assembly 506 generates approximately 16.26 A at Isc. By increasing the width "W" (e.g., scribe line spacing) of the thin-film solar cells during manufacturing to match the known or estimated voltage produced by stacked module assembly 406, stacked module assembly 506 will have the same or similar electrical power generation output as stacked module assembly 406, even though it has 48 fewer thin-film solar cells and corresponding electrical connections in the second module and does not include seventh parallel connection 428.

[0065] 5C shows a schematic diagram 503 of a fourth stacked module assembly. Schematic diagram 503 represents an equivalent circuit of stacked module assembly 506. In this example, a first module includes a first set of three groups 528-530, each of which includes a plurality of solar cells (e.g., 24 solar cells) connected in series, and a second set of three groups 531-533, each of which includes a plurality of solar cells (e.g., 24 solar cells) connected in series, connected in parallel. The first set of three groups 528-530 and the second set of three groups 531-533 are connected in parallel with four parallel groups 534-539, 540-545, 546-551, and 552-557, each of which includes perovskite solar cells connected in series, included in a second module. Each of the four parallel groups 534-539, 540-545, 546-551, and 552-557 includes a plurality of series-connected solar cells, such as six series-connected perovskite solar cells.

[0066] FIG. 6A shows a schematic diagram 600 that schematically illustrates a parallel configuration of a group of series-connected solar cells in a first module and a parallel set of series-connected thin-film solar cells in a second module. While specific thin-film solar cell examples are described with respect to perovskite solar cells, it should be understood that these specific examples are applicable to other thin-film solar cells. As shown, the schematic diagram 600 includes a group of series-connected solar cells 602 in a first module, a parallel set of series-connected perovskite solar cells 604 in a second module, and a stacked module assembly 606 including the first and second modules. In some embodiments, the first module is positioned below the second module in the stacked module assembly 606, such that photons passing through the group of perovskite solar cells 604 can be received by the group of solar cells 602.

[0067] As an example, the series-connected solar cell group 602 includes 144 half-cut M10 cells in one set of series-connected solar cells. As shown, the series-connected solar cell group 602 includes a first series-connected group of 24 solar cells, which is electrically connected in series with a second series-connected group of 24 solar cells via a first series connection 608. In this example, the second series-connected group of 24 solar cells is electrically connected in series with a third series-connected group of 24 solar cells via a second series connection 610. The fourth series-connected group of 24 solar cells is electrically connected in series with a fifth series-connected group of 24 solar cells via a third series connection 612. The fifth series-connected group of 24 solar cells is electrically connected in series with a sixth series-connected group of 24 solar cells via a fourth series connection 614. In this example, the stacked module assembly 606 also includes groups of parallel-connected perovskite solar cells, and the series-connected perovskite solar cells 604 include a total of 192 perovskite solar cells, organized into two parallel groups of 96 series-connected perovskite solar cells.

[0068] A sixth set of 24 series-connected solar cells is electrically connected to a node of the parallel group of parallel-connected perovskite solar cells 604 by a first parallel connection 616. In one or more embodiments, a first set of 96 series-connected perovskite solar cells is electrically connected in parallel to the node by a second parallel connection 618. A second set of 96 series-connected perovskite solar cells is electrically connected in parallel to the node by a third parallel connection 620.

[0069] In some embodiments, N sets of M series-connected solar cells may be electrically connected in parallel, where N and M are integers and M is greater than N. In one or more examples, N may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or an integer greater than 5. In various examples, M may be greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In one or more embodiments, O sets of D series-connected thin-film solar cells may be electrically connected in parallel, where O and D are integers. In some embodiments, O may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or an integer greater than 9. In some embodiments, D may be greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In various embodiments, N sets are electrically connected in parallel with O groups. For example, in the example described above, N may be 1, M may be 144, O may be 2, and D may be 96, and the N set may be connected in parallel with the O group by first, second, and third parallel connections (616, 618, 620).

[0070] Some embodiments of the present disclosure include setting a target output voltage for the stacked module assembly 606 based on various constraints, such as inverter system-level voltage and supply-side power and energy requirements. For example, the target output voltage typically limits the number of module assemblies (e.g., multiple instances of the stacked module assembly 606) that can be series-connected without exceeding the inverter system-level voltage. In various embodiments, a first target output voltage may maximize power generation capacity (e.g., wattage) while sacrificing power generation energy (e.g., watt-hours), while a second target output voltage may maximize power generation energy while sacrificing power generation capacity. For example, the first target output voltage may be set to match Voc or Vmp under STC conditions, while the second target output voltage may be set to match Voc or Vmp under NOCT conditions. In one or more examples, the supply-side power requirements provide guidance on whether to set the first or second target output voltage. For example, for a first utility company (e.g., driven by cooling power demand) experiencing peak demand during the day in the summer, the first target output voltage may be preferable to the second target output voltage because the stacked module assembly 606 may help meet the peak demand (e.g., and reserve margin). However, for a second utility company (e.g., driven by heating power demand) experiencing peak demand during the winter, the second target output voltage may be preferable to the first target output voltage.

[0071] After setting a target output voltage for the stacked module assembly 606, dimensions of each solar cell and each thin-film solar cell can be calculated based on the target output voltage. The solar cell dimensions are configured to generate a first voltage by receiving electromagnetic radiation (e.g., light) of a first intensity (e.g., a first light intensity). The thin-film solar cell dimensions are configured to generate a second voltage by receiving electromagnetic radiation of a second intensity, where the first intensity is received by the thin-film solar cell after a portion of the second intensity (e.g., approximately 50-67% of the full sun intensity) is absorbed by the thin-film solar cell as the electromagnetic radiation passes through the thin-film solar cell. In various embodiments, the solar cell dimensions are calculated based on at least one series electrical connection of the solar cells. In some embodiments, the thin-film solar cell dimensions are calculated based on at least one series electrical connection of the thin-film solar cells. In one or more embodiments, the solar cell dimensions and the thin-film solar cell dimensions are calculated based on at least one parallel electrical connection of the at least one series electrical connection of the solar cells with the at least one series electrical connection of the thin-film solar cells.

[0072] In some examples, the series connected solar cells 602 of the first module generate a Vmp of approximately 85.25 V at the NOCT, and the parallel set of perovskite solar cells 604 of the second module generate a Vmp of approximately 85.5 V at the NOCT. Notably, Vmp is less than 100 V. In various embodiments, the stacked module assembly 606 generates a Voc of approximately 104.9 V. In some examples, the stacked module assembly 606 generates an Isc of approximately 8.13 A.

[0073] 6B shows a schematic diagram 601 of a fifth stacked module assembly. Schematic diagram 601 represents an equivalent circuit of stacked module assembly 606. As shown in the figure, the first module includes a set of six groups 622-627, each including 24 series-connected solar cells. In this example, the series-connected solar cells of the six groups 622-627 are connected in parallel with a first group 628-639 of 12 series-connected perovskite solar cells and a second group 640-651 of 12 series-connected perovskite solar cells, respectively. In this simplified example, the second module includes 24 series-connected perovskite solar cells. However, in some other examples, there may be more than 5, or more than 10, or more than 25, or more than 40, or more than 50, or more than 100 solar cells, while there may be more than 5, or more than 10, or more than 25, or more than 40, or more than 50, or more than 100 thin film solar cells (e.g., perovskite solar cells).

[0074] FIG. 7A shows a schematic side view 700 of a first thin-film solar module including a plurality of series-connected thin-film solar cells that can be used to form part of a first circuit. FIG. 7B shows a plan view 702 of the first thin-film solar module shown in FIG. 7A. While specific thin-film solar cell examples are described with respect to perovskite solar cells, it should be understood that these specific examples also apply to other thin-film solar cells. In some embodiments, the first thin-film solar module includes thin-film solar cells (e.g., perovskite solar cells), and the second solar module includes solar cells (e.g., crystalline material solar cells, monocrystalline silicon solar cells, polycrystalline silicon solar cells, thin-film solar cells, etc.). In some embodiments, the thin-film solar module (e.g., including perovskite solar cells) and the solar module are arranged in a stacked configuration. The first thin-film solar module includes an optically transparent superstrate 704 (e.g., substrate) that allows electromagnetic radiation (e.g., light) to pass through the superstrate 704 and be received by solar cells (not shown) disposed below the superstrate 704. The first scribe line P1, the second scribe line P2, the third scribe line P3, and the fourth scribe line P4 of the first thin-film solar cell module are shown in Figure 7A. Each of the series-connected thin-film solar cells of the first thin-film solar cell module is typically defined by a series of scribe lines including the first scribe line P1, the second scribe line P2, and the third scribe line P3.

[0075] In some embodiments, a first contact layer 706 is disposed over a first substrate (superstrate) 704, an absorber layer 714 is disposed at least partially over the first contact layer 706, and a second contact layer 716 is disposed at least partially over the absorber layer 714. In one or more embodiments, the absorber layer 714 comprises a perovskite-containing absorber layer. In one example, the absorber layer includes a perovskite material having an ABX3 stoichiometry, where A is a first cation, B is a second cation, and X includes at least one halide (e.g., chloride, bromide, or iodide). In another example, the absorber layer 140 includes a perovskite having an ABX3 stoichiometry, where A includes at least one of formamidinium (FA), methylammonium (MA), or cesium, B includes at least one of tin or lead, and X includes at least one halide. Additionally, the absorber layer may include methylammonium lead triiodide (MAPbI), cesium formamidinium methylammonium lead triiodide (CsFAMAPbI), silicon (amorphous and / or crystalline), III-V materials (amorphous and / or crystalline), organic photovoltaic materials (OPV), dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSX), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), cadmium telluride (CdTe), or combinations thereof. While the perovskite solar cells shown in Figures 7A and 8A include simplified structural illustrations of series-connected perovskite solar cells, this configuration is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure provided herein. For example, the perovskite solar cell may also include one or more charge transport layers (CTLs) disposed on each side of the absorber layer 714 and / or one or more barrier layers disposed within the device layer stack without departing from the scope of the present disclosure provided herein.

[0076] The first thin-film solar cell module includes a first electrode 708, a second electrode 710 (e.g., a common electrode), and a third electrode 712. In some embodiments, at least one of the first, second, and third electrodes 708, 710, 712 includes planar ribbons of electrically conductive material. Also, in one or more embodiments, the second electrode 710 includes planar ribbons of electrically conductive material disposed on or above the first contact layer 706. In various embodiments, the second electrode 710 includes planar ribbons of electrically conductive material disposed between an absorber layer 714 (e.g., comprising a perovskite-containing absorber layer) and a second contact layer 716. In certain embodiments, one or more dimensions of the first electrode 708, second electrode 710, and third electrode 712 are minimized to maximize transmission of electromagnetic radiation (e.g., light) through the superstrate 704. In various embodiments, the first, second, and third electrodes 708, 710, 712 are fabricated from an optically transparent conductive material such as indium tin oxide, silver nanowires, graphene, or the like.

[0077] In the illustrated example, the second electrode 710 is disposed between the first electrode 708 and the third electrode 712. In some embodiments, the second electrode 710 is a common electrode for the first electrode 708 and the third electrode 712. In one or more embodiments, the first electrode 708 and the second electrode 710 form a first circuit, and the second electrode 710 and the third electrode 712 form a second circuit. In some examples, the first electrode 708 and the third electrode 712 have a first polarity, and the second electrode 710 has a second polarity. In various embodiments, the second electrode 710 may include any of the first parallel connection 408, the second parallel connection 410, the third parallel connection 420, the fourth parallel connection 422, the fifth parallel connection 424, the sixth parallel connection 426, the seventh parallel connection 428, the first parallel connection 508, the second parallel connection 510, the third parallel connection 520, the fourth parallel connection 522, the fifth parallel connection 524, the sixth parallel connection 526, the first parallel connection 616, the second parallel connection 618, or the third parallel connection 620.

[0078] In the above example, the second electrode 710 is a common electrode for the first electrode 708 and the third electrode 712, but it should be understood that in other examples, the first electrode 708 or the second electrode may be implemented as a common electrode. In some embodiments, the first electrode 708 is a common electrode for the second electrode 710 and the third electrode. In other embodiments, the third electrode 712 is a common electrode for the first electrode 708 and the second electrode 710.

[0079] As shown in plan view 702 (FIG. 7B), the first thin-film solar module includes scribe areas 718-1, 718-2 and a solar cell active area 720. In some embodiments, the relative order of the scribe lines in scribe area 718-1 (e.g., P3, P2, P1) is different from the relative order of the scribe lines in scribe area 718-2 (e.g., P1, P2, P3). For example, the relative order of the scribe lines in scribe area 718-1 (e.g., P3, P2, P1) mirrors the relative order of scribe area 718-2 (e.g., P1, P2, P3) with respect to the second electrode 710. In these embodiments, the different relative ordering of the scribe lines in scribe regions 718-1 and 718-2 facilitates electrode removal in the first thin-film solar cell module, thereby allowing the second electrode 710 to be common to the first electrode 708 and the third electrode 712. Generally, first scribe lines may be formed in a first scribe region located on a first side of an electrode disposed between a pair of electrodes, and the first scribe lines may have a first ordering relative to the electrode. In some examples, second scribe lines may be formed in a second scribe region located on a second side of the electrode, and the second scribe lines may have a second ordering relative to the electrode that mirrors the first ordering. Generally, a first particular type of first scribe line may be formed on a first side of the electrode, and the first scribe lines may be spaced a first particular distance 750 from the electrode on the first side. In some examples, a second scribe line of a first particular type may be formed on a second side of the electrode, and the second scribe line may be spaced a first particular distance 750 from the electrode on the second side. In various examples, a third scribe line of a second particular type may be formed on a first side of the electrode, and the third scribe line may be spaced a second particular distance 752 from the electrode on the first side. A fourth scribe line of a second particular type may be formed on a second side of the electrode, and the fourth scribe line may be spaced a second particular distance 752 from the electrode on the second side.In this configuration, a series connected perovskite solar cell formed between the first electrode 708 and the second electrode 710 can be connected in parallel with a series connected perovskite solar cell formed between the second electrode 710 and the third electrode 712. Removal of the electrodes reduces optical losses (e.g., geometric fill factor losses) in the first thin-film solar cell module.

[0080] 7A-7B , a first plurality of solar cells 731 may be electrically connected in series along a first direction 740 between a first electrode 708 and a second electrode 710. In one or more embodiments, a second plurality of solar cells 732 may be electrically connected in series along a second direction 742 between a second electrode 710 and a third electrode 712. In various examples, the second direction 742 is opposite to the first direction 740. In one example, the first plurality of solar cells 731 may be electrically connected in series by defining and assigning an order of scribe lines (e.g., P1, P2, P3) formed on each of the series-connected solar cells within a scribe region 718-1 along the first direction 740. Additionally, the second plurality of solar cells 732 may be electrically connected in series by defining and assigning an order of scribe lines (e.g., P1, P2, P3) formed on each series-connected solar cell within the scribe region 718-2 along the second direction 742. In this example, the anode terminal 731-1 of the electrically series-connected first plurality of solar cells 731 and the anode terminal 732-1 of the electrically series-connected second plurality of solar cells 732 may be electrically coupled to the second electrode 710. In some examples, the second electrode 710 may include an anode electrode. The cathode terminal 731-2 of the series-connected first plurality of solar cells 731 may be coupled to the first electrode 708, and the cathode terminal 732-2 of the series-connected second plurality of solar cells 732 may be coupled to the third electrode 712. In one or more examples, the first electrode 708 may include a first cathode electrode, and the third electrode 712 may include a second cathode electrode.

[0081] In various embodiments, an anode terminal 731-1 of the first plurality of solar cells 731 is positioned a first distance 760 away from an anode terminal 732-1 of the second plurality of solar cells 732. A cathode terminal 731-2 of the first plurality of solar cells 731 is positioned a second distance 762 away from a cathode terminal 732-2 of the second plurality of solar cells 732. In the example shown in FIG. 7A , the second distance 762 is greater than the first distance 760.

[0082] In some embodiments, at least one solar cell of the first plurality of solar cells 731 includes a first portion 706-1 of a first contact layer 706 disposed on a surface of the superstrate 704, a first portion 714-1 of an absorber layer 714 disposed on the first portion 706-1 of the first contact layer 706, and a first portion 716-1 of a second contact layer 716 disposed on the first portion 714-1 of the absorber layer 714. In various embodiments, the first portion 706-1 of the first contact layer 706 is disposed between first P1 scribe lines. A first P2 scribe line can be formed through the first portion 714-1 of the absorber layer 714. In some examples, the first P3 scribe line extends through the first portion 716-1 of the second contact layer 716 and the first portion 714-1 of the absorber layer 714. In a particular embodiment, the first P1 scribe line, the first P2 scribe line, and the first P3 scribe line are arranged in series along a first direction 740 parallel to the surface of the superstrate 704.

[0083] In one or more embodiments, at least one solar cell of the second plurality of solar cells 732 includes a second portion 706-2 of the first contact layer 706 disposed on the surface of the superstrate 704, a second portion 714-2 of the absorber layer 714 disposed on the second portion 706-2 of the first contact layer 706, and a second portion 716-2 of the second contact layer 716 disposed on the second portion 714-2 of the absorber layer 714. In some embodiments, the second portion 706-2 of the first contact layer 706 is disposed between the second P1 scribe lines. A second P2 scribe line can be formed through the second portion 714-2 of the absorber layer 714. In one or more examples, the second P3 scribe line extends through the second portion 716-2 of the second contact layer 716 and the second portion 714-2 of the absorber layer 714. In various embodiments, the second P1 scribe line, the second P2 scribe line, and the second P3 scribe line are arranged in series along a second direction 742 parallel to the surface of the superstrate 704 and opposite to the first direction 740.

[0084] Some embodiments of the present disclosure include setting a target output voltage for a solar cell device, including a thin-film solar cell module and a stacked solar cell module, based on various constraints, such as inverter system-level voltage and supply-side power / energy requirements. In one or more embodiments, after the target output voltage for the solar cell device is set, dimensions of the thin-film solar cells included in the thin-film solar cell module and dimensions of the solar cells included in the solar cell module are calculated based on the target output voltage. In some examples, dimensions of the electrodes are minimized based on the dimensions of the thin-film solar cells and the solar cells. Thus, calculating the dimensions of the thin-film solar cells and the solar cells may include minimizing the surface area of ​​the electrodes (e.g., the first, second, and third electrodes 708, 710, 712) and further include updating a first electromagnetic radiation intensity received by the solar cell and a second electromagnetic radiation intensity received by the thin-film solar cell based on the minimized electrode surface area. In some embodiments, a change in a first voltage generated by the solar cell is estimated based on the updated first electromagnetic radiation intensity, and a change in a second voltage generated by the thin-film solar cell is also estimated based on the updated second electromagnetic radiation intensity. In various embodiments, the dimensions of the solar cells are recalculated based on the estimated change in the first voltage, and the dimensions of the thin-film solar cells are recalculated based on the estimated change in the second voltage.

[0085] FIG. 8A shows a schematic side view 800 of a second thin-film solar module. FIG. 8B shows a plan view 802 of the second thin-film solar module shown in FIG. 8A. While certain thin-film solar cell examples are described with respect to perovskite solar cells, it should be understood that certain examples also apply to other thin-film solar cells. In some embodiments, the second thin-film solar module is similar to the first thin-film solar module shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B but further includes a first shaped electrode 804, a second shaped electrode 806, and a third shaped electrode 808. In one or more embodiments, the first, second, and third shaped electrodes 804, 806, 808 include shaped wires having cross-sectional shapes such as circular, triangular, hemispherical, etc. In various embodiments, the first, second, and third shaped electrodes 804, 806, 808 have lateral dimensions (e.g., X-direction dimensions) configured to maximize light transmission through the superstrate 704 by minimizing transmission losses to adjacently disposed solar cells (e.g., solar cells 402, 502, 602) due to shading. In certain embodiments, the first, second, and third shaped electrodes 804, 806, 808 include shapes / dimensions configured to maximize electrical conductivity. In the example shown in side view 800, the first, second, and third shaped electrodes 804, 806, 808 have the same cross-sectional shape. However, in other examples, the first, second, and third shaped electrodes 804, 806, 808 may not have the same cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the first, second, and third shaped electrodes 804, 806, 808 can each have a unique cross-sectional shape. For example, second shaped electrode 806 includes a wire having a first cross-sectional shape, and first shaped electrode 804 includes a wire having a second cross-sectional shape that is different from the first cross-sectional shape. In one or more embodiments, second shaped electrode 806 includes an anode electrode, first shaped electrode 804 includes a first cathode electrode, and third shaped electrode 808 includes a second cathode electrode. The first cathode electrode included in first shaped electrode 804 may have a first cross-sectional shape, and the second cathode electrode included in third shaped electrode 808 may have a second cross-sectional shape that is different from the first cross-sectional shape.

[0086] FIG. 9A shows a schematic side view 900 of a third thin-film solar module. FIG. 9B shows a plan view 902 of the third thin-film solar module shown in FIG. 9A. While certain thin-film solar cell examples are described with respect to perovskite solar cells, it should be understood that certain examples also apply to other thin-film solar cells. As shown in side view 900, the third thin-film solar module includes a superstrate 704, a first electrode 904, a second electrode 906, and a third electrode 908. A first scribe line P1, a second scribe line P2, a third scribe line P3, and a fourth scribe line P4 of the third thin-film solar module are shown in FIG. 9A. In various embodiments, the third thin-film solar module includes a first contact layer 910 disposed over the superstrate 704, a corresponding absorber layer 914 disposed at least partially on top of the first contact layer 910, and a second contact layer 916 disposed at least partially on top of the absorber layer 914. Generally, the third thin-film solar module is configured similarly to the second thin-film solar module shown in Figures 8A-8B, but includes a first electrode 904 and a third electrode 906 disposed on the second contact layer 916.

[0087] In some embodiments, the second electrode 906 is a common electrode for the first electrode 904 and the third electrode 908. In one or more embodiments, the second electrode 906 is a positive electrode, and the first electrode 904 and the third electrode 908 are negative electrodes. As shown, the second electrode 906 is disposed on a first contact layer 910. In some embodiments, the first electrode 904 and the third electrode 908 may be disposed on a second contact layer 916 to improve the geometric fill factor of the third thin-film solar module. In one or more embodiments, the first, second, and third electrodes 904, 906, 908 comprise first, second, and third shaped electrodes 804, 806, 808, respectively. In certain embodiments, the third thin-film solar module may include one or more modifications (e.g., heat sinks) for thermal compensation due to the inclusion of the first electrode 904 and the third electrode 908 on the second contact layer 916. In various embodiments, the third thin-film solar cell module may include one or more modifications to compensate for the inclusion of the first electrode 904 and the third electrode 908 on the second contact layer 916. Examples of such modifications may include additional encapsulation, additional framing, the addition of a coating or laminate, or other mechanical compensation.

[0088] 9B , the third thin-film solar module includes scribe regions 918-1, 918-2, and solar cells 920. In some embodiments, the relative order of the scribe lines in scribe region 918-1 (e.g., P3, P2, P1) is different from the relative order of the scribe lines in scribe region 918-2 (e.g., P1, P2, P3). For example, the different relative order of the scribe lines in scribe regions 918-1 and 918-2 facilitates electrode removal in the third thin-film solar module, thereby improving the geometric fill factor of the third thin-film solar module. In one or more embodiments, the geometric fill factor is further improved by including the first electrode 904 and the third electrode 908 on the second contact layer 916.

[0089] Solar cell module interconnection example FIG. 10 illustrates an example 1000 including a system 1001 including a combination of solar modules and thin-film solar modules separately connected in parallel at the string level. The specific thin-film solar cell example is described with respect to perovskite solar cells. However, it should be understood that the specific example also applies to other thin-film solar cells. As shown in FIG. 10, the system 1001 includes a plurality of module pairs 1012, each including an upper first module including serially connected perovskite solar cells and a lower second module including serially connected solar cells (e.g., an array of silicon-based solar cells). In the example 1000, the inherent mismatch between the perovskite solar cells and the solar cells discussed above can be resolved at the string level rather than the module level. Unlike the examples described with respect to Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, in which the solar cell and perovskite solar cell are included in a single circuit, in example 1000, the solar cell module is included in a first circuit and the perovskite solar cell module is included in a second circuit. For example, the second circuit is electrically isolated from the first circuit. Because the solar cell module and perovskite solar cell module are included in separate circuits, there is no need to match the current and / or voltage between these separate circuits. Instead, current / voltage matching for the solar cell module included in the first circuit is performed at the string level using a first power generation parameter matching module (not shown), and current / voltage matching for the perovskite solar cell module included in the second circuit is performed at the string level using a second power generation parameter matching module (not shown). The first power generation parameter matching module is configured to match current and / or voltage for solar cell modules included in the first circuit (eg, independently of the second power generation parameter matching module).The second power generation parameter matching module is configured to match the current and / or voltage for the perovskite solar cell modules included in the second circuit (e.g., independently of the first power generation parameter matching module). For example, the first power generation parameter matching module is configured to match a first power generation parameter for the first circuit, and the second power generation parameter matching module is configured to match a second power generation parameter for the second circuit. In one or more embodiments, the first power generation parameter is a different type of parameter from the second power generation parameter. In other embodiments, the first power generation parameter is the same type of parameter as the second power generation parameter, but the first and second power generation parameters differ by 3% or more, 5% or more, 10% or more, etc. In some embodiments, including the solar cell module and the perovskite solar cell module in separate circuits may avoid current / voltage matching challenges due to differences in the behavior of the solar cell and the perovskite solar cell, improving (reducing) the levelized cost of power generation. As shown, example 1000 includes 30 panels (modules) connected in series between a positive solar cell node 1002 and a negative solar cell node 1004, with each of the 30 panels including a plurality of solar cells connected in series. As further shown, the perovskite solar cell modules are wired into five parallel strings or subsets (1020-1024) connected in series, with these subsets 1020-1024 connected in parallel between a positive perovskite solar cell node 1006 and a negative perovskite solar cell node 1008. Instead of matching the current / voltage between the 30 series-connected solar cell modules and the five parallel-connected strings of perovskite solar cell modules, the 30 series-connected solar cell modules are current / voltage matched at the string level, and the parallel-connected strings of five perovskite solar cell modules are current / voltage matched at the string level. For example, a device may include circuitry for electrically connecting the subsets of solar cell modules in series and electrically connecting the subsets in parallel.Notably, in some embodiments, a first current through the 30 solar cell modules connected in series does not match a second current, which is the sum of the currents through each string of five perovskite solar cell modules connected in parallel. For example, the first current and the second current differ by 3% or more, 5% or more, 10% or more, etc. In some embodiments, a first voltage across the 30 solar cell modules connected in series does not match a second voltage across each string of five perovskite solar cell modules connected in parallel. In one or more examples, the first voltage and the second voltage differ by 3% or more, 5% or more, 10% or more, etc.

[0090] As shown in Figure 10, an inverter 1030 is used to receive the power generated by the solar cell modules and perovskite solar cell modules. In the illustrated example, the inverter 1030 is electrically coupled to a positive solar cell node 1002 and a positive perovskite solar cell node 1006, and is also electrically coupled to a negative solar cell node 1004 and a negative perovskite solar cell node 1008. The inverter 1030 is shown connected to a grid that consumes the power generated by the solar cell modules and perovskite solar cell modules. It should be understood that the inverter 1030 may be representative of one inverter or multiple inverters.

[0091] As described above, the solar cell module is included in a first circuit, and the perovskite solar cell module is included in a second circuit. In one or more embodiments, the first circuit includes a first plurality of solar cell modules. The first plurality of solar cell modules may be connected in series. The solar cell module includes a first plurality of solar cells comprising an absorber layer comprising a first material having a first optical bandgap. In various embodiments, the second circuit includes a second plurality of perovskite photovoltaic modules. The second plurality of perovskite solar cell modules may be connected in series. The perovskite solar cell module includes a plurality of second solar cells, the second solar cells comprising an absorber layer comprising a second material having a second optical bandgap larger than the first optical bandgap. As described above, during operation, one of the solar cell modules is positioned to receive electromagnetic radiation that has passed through the perovskite solar cell module.

[0092] In one or more embodiments, the first circuit and the second circuit are connected in parallel to form a parallel circuit. In some embodiments, the solar cells of the solar cell module each have a first operating voltage during operation. The perovskite solar cells of the perovskite solar cell module each have a second operating voltage during operation. The first group of solar cell modules includes a first number of solar cells, and the second group of perovskite solar cell modules includes a second number of perovskite solar cells. In certain embodiments, the operating voltage of the parallel circuit is based on the least common multiple (LCM) of the first number and the second number. For example, the LCM can be 50 or less, e.g., 40 or less, 25 or less, 10 or less, etc. In some examples, the LCM can be greater than 50.

[0093] During operation, a power generation parameter of the first circuit, such as a first operating voltage generated by the first circuit, differs from a power generation parameter of the second circuit, such as a second operating voltage generated by the second circuit. For example, the power generation parameter of the first circuit and the power generation parameter of the second circuit are less than a maximum power generation parameter (e.g., a maximum operating voltage) of the inverter 1030. In some embodiments, the power generation parameter of the first circuit is within about 5 percent of the power generation parameter of the second circuit. In one or more examples, the voltage across the first circuit is within about 5 percent of the voltage across the second circuit (e.g., the first voltage is within about 1 percent of the second voltage). In another example, the first current flowing through the first circuit is within about 5 percent of the second current flowing through the second circuit (e.g., the first current is within about 1 percent of the second current). In some embodiments, the open circuit voltage of the first circuit (e.g., the group of solar cell modules) and the open circuit voltage of the second circuit (e.g., the group of perovskite solar cell modules) are less than the maximum voltage of an inverter electrically coupled to a solar cell device or assembly comprising the first circuit and the second circuit. In one or more embodiments, the open circuit voltage of the first circuit is within about 5 percent of the open circuit voltage of the second circuit (e.g., the first open circuit voltage is within about 1 percent of the second open circuit voltage).

[0094] In some embodiments, the first circuit includes thin-film solar cell modules connected in parallel (e.g., as a parallel string), with each parallel connection including a first number of thin-film solar cell modules connected in series. The second circuit includes solar cell modules connected in series, with the second circuit including a second number of solar cell modules. In various embodiments, a parallel circuit can be formed by connecting the first circuit and the second circuit in parallel. In some examples, the operating voltage of the parallel circuit is based on the first number and the second number of LCMs. The first number and the second number of LCMs can be 50 or less. In one or more embodiments, the first circuit generates a first operating voltage and the second circuit generates a second operating voltage. The first operating voltage and the second operating voltage can differ by less than 5 percent (e.g., less than 1 percent). In certain embodiments, the inverter 1030 has a voltage rating higher than the first operating voltage generated by the first circuit and the second operating voltage generated by the second circuit.

[0095] In some embodiments, a group of M series-connected solar cell modules is included in the first circuit, where M is an integer. In one or more examples, M can be greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In various embodiments, a set of P series-connected thin-film solar cell modules included in the second circuit can be electrically connected in parallel with the M series-connected solar cell modules, where M and P are both integers. In one or more examples, P can be greater than 5, greater than 25, greater than 40, greater than 50, or greater than 100. In the foregoing example, M is 30 and P is 6. In various embodiments, the operating voltages of the M solar cell modules and the P thin-film solar cell modules have an LCM value. In one example, if the operating voltage of each of the M solar cell modules is 60 volts and the operating voltage of each of the P thin-film solar cell modules is 90 volts, the LCM of the parallel-connected operating voltage is 180 volts. This requires a first string of three series-connected solar cell modules and a second string of two series-connected thin-film solar cell modules in parallel. It should be noted that the LCM of the operating voltage can be calculated for a group / set of series-connected modules in the same manner as for an individual module. In some embodiments, M and P have an LCM, and at least one of M or P is equal to CM. In this case, if each M solar cell module has an operating voltage of 6 volts and each P thin-film solar cell module has an operating voltage of 30 volts, the LCM of the operating voltage when connected in parallel is 30 volts. This requires a first string of five series-connected M solar cell modules and a second string of one P thin-film solar cell module connected in parallel. In general, the operating voltage of a particular circuit can be determined based on the LCM of the number of first solar cell modules in one module of the particular circuit and the number of second solar cell modules in another module of the particular circuit.

[0096] In certain embodiments, a characteristic of one or more of at least two different types of devices (e.g., solar cell modules and thin-film solar cell modules) is tailored so that the LCM of the overall operating voltage can be achieved when series-connected strings of each type of device are combined in parallel. In one example, the physical dimensions of the electromagnetic radiation-collecting region of one of the two different types of devices (e.g., the exposed surface area (e.g., the area formed in the XY plane shown in Figures 7A-7B)) are tailored so that the LCM of the operating voltage can be achieved with a reasonable number of series-connected devices. In some embodiments, the tailored characteristic of at least one of the two different types of devices (e.g., thin-film solar cell devices (e.g., perovskite-containing modules)) can be the spacing between scribe lines to tailor the operating voltage or current. 7A and 7B, in some embodiments, the lateral spacing (e.g., in the −X direction and / or +X direction) of any of the spacing between the P1 and P2 scribe lines, the spacing between the P2 and P3 scribe lines, or the spacing between the P1, P2, and P3 scribe lines may be adjusted to achieve a desired operating voltage and / or current. In some embodiments, the number of modules formed in a series-connected solar cell device (e.g., a perovskite solar cell module) may be increased or decreased to achieve an LCM with a desired operating voltage. In one example, the number of modules formed in a perovskite device can be increased by adjusting the scribe pattern of the perovskite-containing layer stack to include at least one or more sets of P1, P2, and P3 scribe lines compared to the initial scribe pattern.

[0097] In some embodiments, the characteristics of one or more of the two or more different types of devices are selected so that the total operating voltage of the combination of the two or more different types of devices required to achieve LCM of the operating voltage does not exceed a maximum voltage rating (e.g., the voltage rating of the inverter 1030). In some cases, the voltage or current matching techniques and systems described above may also be applied to solar cell modules and perovskite solar cell modules to avoid exceeding the maximum voltage rating. For example, LCM of the operating voltage that does not exceed the maximum voltage rating may be achieved by scaling up or down the dimensions (size) of the solar cell / module and / or the perovskite solar cell / module and / or the spacing (e.g., scribe spacing) between the solar cell / module and the perovskite solar cell / module. Furthermore, LCM of the operating voltage that does not exceed the maximum voltage rating may be achieved by increasing or decreasing the number of solar cell / modules and / or by increasing or decreasing the number of perovskite solar cell / modules.

[0098] 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 1100 for matching maximum power point voltages (Vmp). In operation 1102, a first solar module including a first group of thin-film solar cells and a second group of solar cells is electrically connected to a second solar module including a third group of thin-film solar cells and a fourth group of solar cells. The thin-film solar cells in the first group of thin-film solar cells are electrically connected in series, and the solar cells in the second group of solar cells are electrically connected in series. Additionally, the thin-film solar cells in the third group of thin-film solar cells are electrically connected in series, and the solar cells in the fourth group of solar cells are electrically connected in series. In operation 1104, a common electrode is disposed between the first group of thin-film solar cells and the third group of thin-film solar cells. The common electrode electrically connects the first group of thin-film solar cells and the third group of thin-film solar cells, and the electrical connection is configured to match a maximum power point voltage (Vmp) generated by the first group of thin-film solar cells and the third group of thin-film solar cells with a maximum power point voltage (Vmp) generated by the second group of solar cells and the fourth group of solar cells.

[0099] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other and further embodiments may be devised without departing from the basic scope of the disclosure, the scope of which is defined by the claims that follow.

Claims

1. 1. A method comprising: disposing solar cells below thin-film solar cells, one of the solar cells being positioned to receive electromagnetic radiation propagated through one of the thin-film solar cells, each of the thin-film solar cells having an absorber layer including a first material and each of the solar cells having an absorber layer including a second material; connecting the solar cells and the thin-film solar cells in parallel using solar cell electrical connections configured to match voltages generated by the solar cells and the thin-film solar cells at a nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT), wherein the solar cell electrical connections are: a first electrical connection portion connected to an anode electrode, the anode electrode electrically connecting to the anodes of the first group of thin-film solar cells and the anodes of the second group of thin-film solar cells; and a second electrical connection connecting a first cathode electrode of a first group of the thin-film solar cells to a second cathode electrode of a second group of the thin-film solar cells.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the voltage generated in the NOCT is less than 100 volts.

3. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first material has a first optical bandgap in the range of 1.4 to 1.8 eV, and the second material has a second optical bandgap smaller than the first optical bandgap.

4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the first material comprises a perovskite and the second material comprises silicon.

5. the thin-film solar cells further include a third group of the thin-film solar cells, the third group of the thin-film solar cells being electrically connected in series; The method of claim 1 , further comprising connecting the first, second, and third groups of thin-film solar cells in parallel.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first cathode electrode has a first cross-sectional shape and the second cathode electrode has a second cross-sectional shape different from the first cross-sectional shape.

7. the thin-film solar cell includes a first contact layer and a second contact layer, and the absorption layer is disposed between the first contact layer and the second contact layer; 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the anode electrode comprises a planar ribbon, the planar ribbon being disposed on a first contact layer of one of the thin-film solar cells in the first group of thin-film solar cells and a first contact layer of one of the thin-film solar cells in the second group of thin-film solar cells.

8. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the anode electrode comprises a wire having a first cross-sectional shape that is at least one of circular, triangular, or hemispherical, and the first cathode electrode comprises a wire having a second cross-sectional shape that is different from the first cross-sectional shape.

9. the anode electrode has a cross-sectional shape, 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: positioning the anode electrode such that lateral dimensions of the anode electrode are configured to maximize the amount of the received electromagnetic radiation that is propagated through and received by the thin-film solar cell.

10. 1. A method comprising: disposing solar cells below thin-film solar cells, one of the solar cells being positioned to receive electromagnetic radiation propagated through one of the thin-film solar cells, each of the thin-film solar cells having an absorber layer including a first material and each of the solar cells having an absorber layer including a second material; and connecting the solar cell and the thin-film solar cell with an electrical connection configured to match a voltage generated by the solar cell and the thin-film solar cell at a nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT), the electrical connection comprising: a first anode electrode electrically connected to the anodes of a first group of thin-film solar cells connected in series among the thin-film solar cells and the anodes of a second group of thin-film solar cells connected in series among the thin-film solar cells; a first cathode electrode of a first group of the series-connected thin-film solar cells; a second cathode electrode of a second group of the thin-film solar cells connected in series; a second anode electrode, the second anode electrode electrically connected to an anode of a first group of series-connected solar cells of the solar cell, the first group of series-connected solar cells including a cathode electrode; the first anode electrode is electrically connected to the second anode electrode; The method, wherein the first cathode electrode, the second cathode electrode, and the cathode electrodes of the first group of series-connected solar cells are all electrically connected.

11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the voltage generated in the NOCT is less than 100 volts.

12. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the first material has a first optical bandgap in the range of 1.4 to 1.8 eV, and the second material has a second optical bandgap smaller than the first optical bandgap.

13. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first material comprises a perovskite and the second material comprises silicon.

14. The method of claim 10 , wherein the first cathode electrode has a first cross-sectional shape and the second cathode electrode has a second cross-sectional shape different from the first cross-sectional shape.

15. 1. A method comprising: connecting the first solar cell assembly and the second solar cell assembly with an electrical connection; the first solar cell assembly a first group of thin film solar cells; a second group of solar cells, wherein the thin-film solar cells included in the first group are electrically connected in series and the solar cells included in the second group are electrically connected in series; the second solar cell assembly: a third group of thin film solar cells; the connecting includes a fourth group of solar cells, wherein the thin-film solar cells included in the third group are electrically connected in series and the solar cells included in the fourth group are electrically connected in series; and and disposing a common electrode between the first group and the third group, the common electrode electrically connecting the first group and the third group, the electrical connection configured to match a maximum power point voltage (Vmp) generated by the first group and the third group with a maximum power point voltage (Vmp) generated by the second group and the fourth group.

16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the common electrode is connected to an anode end of the first solar cell assembly and an anode end of the second solar cell assembly.

17. The method of claim 15 , wherein the first solar cell assembly and the second solar cell assembly are electrically connected in parallel.

18. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the solar cells in the second group are disposed below the thin-film solar cells in the first group.

19. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the Vmp is less than 100 volts at nominal operating cell temperature (NOCT).

20. each of the thin-film solar cells has an absorber layer comprising a first material; and each of the solar cells has an absorber layer comprising a second material; 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first material has a first optical bandgap in the range of 1.4 to 1.8 eV, and the second material has a second optical bandgap smaller than the first optical bandgap.

21. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the first material comprises a perovskite and the second material comprises silicon.

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