solar cell module

Abstract

To provide a solar cell module with improved resistance to shadows. [Solution] In the solar cell module 1, a plurality of solar cell cells 10 are arranged in a first direction (horizontal direction X), and then arranged in multiple rows in a second direction (vertical direction Y) perpendicular to the first direction. The second direction is the direction in which the voltage increases or decreases across the entire solar cell module 1. Solar cell cells 10 adjacent to each other in the first direction have portions that are misaligned in the second direction.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a solar cell module having a plurality of solar cells. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, solar cells have become popular as a way to utilize renewable energy. Solar cells using inorganic photoelectric conversion elements (e.g., silicon-based solar cells, CIGS-based solar cells, and CdTe-based solar cells) are widely used, but solar cells using organic photoelectric conversion elements (e.g., organic thin-film solar cells, dye-sensitized solar cells, and perovskite solar cells) are also being considered.

[0003] A well-known method for increasing the output voltage of a solar cell module is to connect solar cells in series. In thin-film solar cell modules, by adopting an appropriate scribe structure, it is possible to fabricate multiple thin-film solar cell elements connected in series on the same substrate.

[0004] However, when the number of integrated solar cell elements is increased to achieve a high voltage, problems have arisen in terms of hot spot resistance. Specifically, when a shadow falls on an operating solar cell module, the power generated by the solar cell elements in the exposed area is consumed by the solar cell elements in the shaded area, generating a large reverse voltage and potentially causing damage due to heat generation. In response to this, solar cell modules have been proposed that have high hot spot resistance and high output voltage (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2009 / 104601 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] A conventional thin-film solar cell module includes a thin-film solar cell string, which is made up of a plurality of thin-film solar cell elements, each having a surface electrode, a photoelectric conversion layer, and a back electrode stacked thereon, connected in series, and the number of stages of the series-connected thin-film solar cell elements in the thin-film solar cell string is configured to satisfy a predetermined formula. Furthermore, in the past, in order to improve the shadow breakdown voltage, a bypass diode has been provided in parallel with the solar cell, the solar cell element, or the solar cell module.

[0007] However, conventionally, cells or solar cell elements have been rectangular in shape, and when a solar cell module made up of integrated rectangular cells (solar cell elements) is used outdoors, linear shadows may fall in the direction perpendicular to the cell integration direction, causing individual cells to be shaded. Furthermore, conventional solutions required certain restrictions to be placed on the structure and number of layers of solar cell or solar cell module.

[0008] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a solar cell module with improved resistance to shadows. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The solar cell module according to the present disclosure is a solar cell module having a plurality of solar cells, wherein the plurality of solar cells arranged in a first direction are arranged in multiple rows in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the second direction being the direction in which voltage increases or decreases across the solar cell module as a whole, and adjacent solar cells in the first direction have portions where one is shifted in position relative to the other in the second direction.

[0010] The solar cell module of the present disclosure is characterized in that the solar cell cells, each having a long width in a first direction, are arranged in multiple rows in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the second direction is the direction in which the voltage of the solar cell module as a whole increases or decreases, and at least a portion of the sides of the solar cell along the first direction have a portion that is shifted in position in the second direction compared to other portions.

[0011] In the solar cell module according to the present disclosure, the solar cell may be configured to be electrically connected to two or more solar cells arranged in different stages.

[0012] In the solar cell module according to the present disclosure, a plurality of the solar cell cells arranged in the same stage and a plurality of the solar cell cells arranged in a different stage may be electrically connected to each other.

[0013] In the solar cell module according to the present disclosure, the solar cell may be configured to be adjacent in the first direction to a solar cell arranged in a different stage.

[0014] In the solar cell module according to the present disclosure, the solar cell may be configured to include, in order from a base, a first conductive layer, a photoelectric conversion layer, and a second conductive layer, and the photoelectric conversion layer may contain a perovskite compound.

[0015] In the solar cell module according to the present disclosure, opposing sides of adjacent solar cells in the first direction may be inclined with respect to the second direction.

[0016] In the solar cell module according to the present disclosure, the solar cell may be configured to have a triangular shape.

[0017] In the solar cell module according to the present disclosure, the solar cell may be configured to have a hexagonal shape.

[0018] In the solar cell module according to the present disclosure, the solar cell may be configured to have a rectangular shape. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present disclosure, even if the solar cell module is covered by a linear shadow, the solar cell is less likely to be subjected to load because it has misaligned parts, thereby improving resistance to shadows. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a solar cell module at a portion where solar cells in different stages are connected to each other. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a solar cell module at a portion where solar cells in the same row are connected to each other. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a solar cell module at a portion where the electrodes of the solar cells are spaced apart. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a circuit diagram of the solar cell module shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram of the solar cell module shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] (First embodiment) Hereinafter, a solar cell module according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] The solar cell module 1 includes multiple solar cells 10. When the solar cell module 1 is viewed from above (i.e., viewed from the direction in which light is incident on the light-receiving surface of the solar cell module; this is what is meant by the term "top view" in this disclosure), the solar cells 10 are arranged in multiple rows in a horizontal direction X (corresponding to a first direction), and in a vertical direction Y (corresponding to a second direction; hereinafter, directions may be expressed using "up" or "down"). For the solar cell module 1 as a whole, the direction in which the voltage (potential) increases or decreases is referred to as the second direction, and the direction perpendicular to the second direction is referred to as the first direction. For ease of explanation, a group of solar cells 10 with similar potentials is also referred to as the "same row," and the rows are designated by increasing numbers of rows, such as row 1, row 2, etc., starting from the row with the lowest potential. FIG. 1 illustrates an enlarged portion of the solar cell module 1, showing four rows of solar cells 10. To distinguish the multiple solar cells 10, the rows may be referred to as the first cell 10A, second cell 10B, third cell 10C, and fourth cell 10D, in order of decreasing potential. 1, the first cell 10A, the second cell 10B, the third cell 10C, and the fourth cell 10D are each hatched or shaded for easy understanding. Note that in this disclosure, the expression "same potential" is used for a group of cells in the same row because, in the embodiment, they are connected via transparent electrodes, and therefore have a certain resistance value and are not at exactly the same potential. Therefore, even if they are in the same row, they do not necessarily have to be at exactly the same potential.

[0024] Regarding the light-receiving surface in the present disclosure, in a bifacial solar cell, it is sufficient to consider either one of the surfaces as the light-receiving surface, and furthermore, as long as at least one of the surfaces has the configuration of the present disclosure when considered as the light-receiving surface, it may be considered that the configuration of the present disclosure is used. In other words, even if one of the surfaces does not have the configuration of the present disclosure when considered as the light-receiving surface, it may be considered that the configuration of the present disclosure is used as long as the other surface has the configuration of the present disclosure when considered as the light-receiving surface.

[0025] In the solar cell module 1 shown in FIG. 1, the cells are arranged so that the voltage during power generation increases from bottom to top. The first cell 10A, the second cell 10B, the third cell 10C, and the fourth cell 10D are arranged in this order from bottom to top. In this disclosure, when the terms "up" and "down" are used without any special reference, they refer to the top and bottom in the vertical direction Y within the page. In FIG. 1, solid arrows indicate the flow of current between solar cell cells 10 with different potentials, while dashed arrows indicate the flow of current between solar cell cells 10 with the same potential. The term "same potential" refers to solar cell cells 10 with approximately the same potential, allowing for slight potential differences. The direction of voltage increase and decrease can be determined by checking whether the solar cell cells 10 are connected in series via the solar cell 10, in parallel, or without electrical connection, as described below in FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0026] In this embodiment, the solar cell 10 has a rectangular shape when viewed from above. The solar cell 10 adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction X have portions that are offset in the vertical direction Y with respect to each other. For example, when focusing on the multiple first cells 10A arranged adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction X, the first first cell 10A from the left is positioned slightly lower than the second first cell 10A from the left. Furthermore, the second first cell 10A from the left is positioned slightly higher than the third first cell 10A from the left. Thus, the multiple first cells 10A are arranged with an alternating vertical offset.

[0027] A solar cell 10 has a portion of its side along the vertical direction Y opposed to a solar cell 10 in the same tier, and is adjacent in the horizontal direction X to a solar cell 10 in a different tier. Specifically, for the first cell 10A arranged second from the left, the lower part of the left side faces the upper part of the right side of the first cell 10A arranged first from the left in the same tier, and the upper part of the left side faces the lower part of the right side of the second cell 10B arranged first from the left in a different tier. Furthermore, for the first cell 10A arranged second from the left, the lower part of the right side faces the upper part of the left side of the first cell 10A arranged third from the left in the same tier, and the upper part of the right side faces the lower part of the left side of the second cell 10B arranged third from the left in a different tier. Furthermore, the upper side of the first cell 10A arranged second from the left faces the lower side of the second cell 10B arranged second from the left in a different tier. As described above, by making the uppermost or lowermost positions in the vertical direction Y of the solar battery cells 10 adjacent in the horizontal direction X different, portions that are misaligned in the vertical direction Y are provided.

[0028] In the solar cell module 1, the direction in which the voltage increases or decreases can be set appropriately by connecting corresponding electrodes of adjacent solar cells 10. For example, the location indicated by arrow P1 corresponds to the portion where solar cells 10 in different rows are connected, the location indicated by arrow P2 corresponds to the portion where solar cells 10 in the same row are connected, and the location indicated by arrow P3 corresponds to the portion where the electrodes of solar cells 10 are spaced apart.

[0029] Next, the cross-sectional structure of the solar cell module 1 will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 4. Note that hatching has been omitted in Figures 2 to 4 to make the drawings easier to read.

[0030] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the solar cell module at a portion where solar cells on different stages are connected to each other, that is, the cross-sectional view of the portion indicated by arrow P1 in FIG.

[0031] Figure 2 focuses on the portion where solar cell 10 in different stages are connected, with the solar cell 10 on the left side of Figure 2 corresponding to the first cell 10A and the solar cell 10 on the right side of Figure 2 corresponding to the second cell 10B.

[0032] The solar cell 10 has a transparent electrode layer 3 (an example of a first conductive layer), a dense electron transport layer 4, a photoelectric conversion layer (a porous electron transport layer 5, an insulating layer 6, and a light absorbing portion in this embodiment), and a second conductive layer 7 stacked on a substrate 2.

[0033] The base 2 is the base of the solar cell 10 and may be the same as or include the substrate or base material. It may be hard and highly rigid, or it may be flexible or have low rigidity. The base 2 may be, for example, flat or film-like in shape. When light is irradiated (light is incident) on the surface of the solar cell 10 facing the base 2 (the underside of the base 2 in FIG. 2), i.e., when the side facing the base 2 is the light-receiving surface, the base 2 is preferably transparent. In this case, examples of materials for the base 2 include glass and heat-resistant transparent resins. When light is irradiated from the opposite side, the base 2 may be opaque. Note that "transparent" means that light is transmitted through the base 2, but this does not exclude materials that reflect or absorb light even slightly. It is sufficient for the base 2 to transmit light appropriately, and can be considered synonymous with being located on the light-receiving surface side of the solar cell (including the portion where light is incident, as in the present disclosure). Therefore, a material can be considered transparent simply by being located on at least the light-receiving surface side of the solar cell.

[0034] The transparent electrode layer 3 is a conductive member. The first conductive layer is formed on the substrate 2, on the surface of the substrate 2, or on one side of the substrate 2 (for example, the upper side), and functions as an electrode for extracting photovoltaic power from the solar cell 10. The transparent electrode layer 3 is divided into multiple island-like sections. The transparent electrode layer 3 is formed of a transparent conductive material, such as FTO (fluorine-doped tin oxide), CuI (copper iodide), ITO (indium tin oxide), SnO2 (tin oxide), AZO (aluminum zinc oxide), IZO (indium zinc oxide), GZO (gallium zinc oxide), and ATO (antimony-doped tin oxide), as well as conductive transparent polymers. Note that the chemical formula is a representative example and may be any compound name (as in the present disclosure). Furthermore, the composition ratio of the chemical formula is preferably stoichiometric, but does not necessarily have to be stoichiometric (as in the present disclosure). The transparent electrode layer 3 may be configured with a conductive metal such as silver or thin wires thereof formed on an oxide film of a conductive transparent material or the like. The term "film" does not specify thickness or width, and includes patterned or island-shaped films and films with portions of different thicknesses. Preferably, the film has a substantially constant thickness. Unless otherwise specified, "approximately" or "approximately" refers to the range of manufacturing error, and preferably indicates that a variation of plus or minus 15% of the numerical value is allowed.

[0035] The dense electron transport layer 4 is a layer capable of transporting electrons generated in the light absorbing portion (for example, a perovskite compound). The dense electron transport layer 4 naturally has this function as long as the solar cell has a photoelectric conversion function, and it can be considered synonymous with being disposed on the electron transport side of the light absorbing portion. Therefore, as long as it is disposed at least on the electron transport side of the perovskite compound, it can be said to have an electron transport function. The dense electron transport layer 4 preferably has a function of blocking hole transport. The dense electron transport layer 4 is dense. Details of the dense material will be described below, but it is preferable that the layer has few or no pores. Furthermore, it is preferable that most of these pores are independent and not connected. The dense layer can function as a layer that is almost impermeable to dropped liquid. In this embodiment, the dense electron transport layer 4 is formed of titanium oxide or tin oxide. Furthermore, the dense electron transport layer 4 is provided on the transparent electrode layer 3 and is not present on the substrate 2.

[0036] The term "layer" does not specify thickness or width, and includes a pattern or island shape, or a layer having portions of different thickness. A layer is preferably a member having a substantially constant thickness.

[0037] Dense matter may also be called compact, compact substance, etc., and may be the same as or include these.

[0038] Porous may be referred to as porous or mesoporous, and may be the same as or include these. In the present disclosure, porous means that light-absorbing portions (for example, perovskite compounds) can be contained in voids (which can be variously expressed as gaps, holes, or cavities). The porous layer may include a porous electron transport layer or an insulating layer, or a porous electron transport layer and an insulating layer. Preferably, a porous electron transport layer is disposed on one side (for example, the lower side) of the porous layer in the thickness direction, and an insulating layer is disposed on the opposite side (for example, the upper side). The porous layer may also include a second conductive layer.

[0039] Furthermore, a dense material refers to a material having extremely small voids. That is, in the present disclosure, a dense material refers to a material that can be observed such that no light-absorbing portion (in this embodiment, as an example, a perovskite compound, hereinafter referred to as a perovskite compound) is present on one side (for example, the lower side) of the dense material in the thickness direction. That is, even if a perovskite compound is present on the upper side of the dense material, it is possible to ensure that it does not penetrate to the lower side of the dense material. Preferably, a dense material refers to a material having extremely small voids. Preferably, a dense material refers to a material in which the maximum void width is less than 5 nm. Preferably, a dense material is one that suppresses the penetration of the perovskite compound, and is capable of being free of the perovskite compound on one side of the dense material in the thickness direction. More preferably, a dense material refers to a material that cannot contain a perovskite compound in the voids or does not have a portion where the perovskite compound is continuously present throughout the thickness of the dense material. That is, when a dense material cannot be confirmed by the maximum width of the voids it has, it is sufficient if observation by SEM or EDX reveals that there are no portions where the perovskite compound exists throughout the layer thickness. In the present disclosure, unless otherwise stated, SEM observation should be performed on a 400 nm wide cross-sectional SEM (or EDX) image and confirmed. For example, if observation by SEM or EDX of a single 400 nm wide cross-section reveals no portions where the perovskite compound exists throughout the layer thickness, the layer can be said to be dense.

[0040] The porous electron transport layer 5 (an example of an electron transport layer) functions as an electron transport layer that transports electrons generated in the light absorbing section to the electrode. Examples of materials that can be used for the porous electron transport layer 5 include titanium oxide, tin oxide, and aluminum oxide. Furthermore, an n-type inorganic oxide is suitable for the porous electron transport layer 5. As already described in detail, a porous layer preferably has numerous pores within the layer, and these pores are interconnected. Because of its porosity, when a liquid (with good wettability) is dropped onto the porous layer (with hollow pores), the liquid penetrates into the porous layer. Like the dense electron transport layer 4, the porous electron transport layer 5 is also a layer capable of transporting electrons generated in the perovskite compound. Naturally, the porous electron transport layer 5 also functions as a solar cell. That is, as long as it is disposed on the electron transport side (or negative electrode side, as in the present disclosure) of the perovskite compound of the solar cell, it can be considered to have the electron transport function. The porous electron transport layer 5 may preferably be a mesoporous layer. Furthermore, it is even more preferable if the porous electron transport layer 5 is a mesoporous nanocrystalline layer.

[0041] In this embodiment, the porous electron transport layer 5 is provided on the dense electron transport layer 4 in an area corresponding to each solar cell 10. Therefore, there is an area on the upper surface of the dense electron transport layer 4 that is not covered with the porous electron transport layer 5.

[0042] The insulating layer 6 is made of a porous material. Examples of materials for the insulating layer 6 include metal oxides, such as titanium oxide, zirconium dioxide, and aluminum oxide, and oxides, such as silicon dioxide. Note that insulation does not necessarily have to completely prevent charge transfer; it is acceptable for the thickness and structure of the insulating layer to suppress, but not completely prevent, charge transfer. Adding an insulating layer increases the distance between the first conductive layer (including the electron transport layer, if present) and the second conductive layer (including the hole transport layer, if present), thereby reducing physical contact between the materials on both sides and suppressing the recombination of electrons and holes generated in the light-absorbing region. In other words, adding an insulating layer can improve the performance of solar cells and contribute to achieving commercialized performance. Therefore, the insulating layer exists between the first conductive layer (including the electron transport layer, if present) and the second conductive layer (including the hole transport layer, if present) and contributes to increasing the distance between the two sides. As a result, it is sufficient to confirm the physical properties of the insulating layer if the solar cell is commercialized; it is not necessary to verify the insulating performance. The insulating layer 6 is a porous layer containing voids, and preferably has a large number of voids with a size of 20 nm or more. In other words, the insulating layer 6 is occupied by, for example, the metal oxide that constitutes the insulating layer 6 itself and the voids that are the gaps between the metal oxides. The insulating layer 6 also has voids with a size of less than 20 nm, and the porosity is set to include these small voids. Furthermore, light absorbing portions that absorb irradiated light are provided in the voids of the insulating layer 6.

[0043] In this embodiment, the insulating layer 6 is provided on the porous electron transport layer 5 and in an area wider than the porous electron transport layer 5. Specifically, one end (the left end in FIG. 2 ) of the insulating layer 6 covers part of the upper surface of the dense electron transport layer 4, and the other end (the right end in FIG. 2 ) protrudes outside the dense electron transport layer 4 and covers the side surfaces of the transparent electrode layer 3 and the dense electron transport layer 4. The other end of the insulating layer 6 does not reach the transparent electrode layer 3 and the dense electron transport layer 4 of the adjacent solar cell 10 and is separated therefrom.

[0044] The second conductive layer 7 is a conductive member. It functions as an electrode for extracting photovoltaic power from the solar cell 10. It has the function of collecting photoexcited holes in the light absorbing portion and is preferably formed of a porous carbon material. The second conductive layer 7 is provided in a range where it partially overlaps with the insulating layer 6. Specifically, one end (the left end in FIG. 2 ) of the second conductive layer 7 does not reach the end of the insulating layer 6, exposing a portion of the upper surface of the insulating layer 6. The other end (the right end in FIG. 2 ) of the second conductive layer 7 extends beyond the insulating layer 6 and reaches the transparent electrode layer 3 and dense electron transport layer 4 of the adjacent solar cell 10. In other words, the end of the second conductive layer 7 contacts the dense electron transport layer 4 of the adjacent solar cell 10, so that the adjacent solar cell 10 are electrically connected to each other.

[0045] The second conductive layer 7 may be, for example, a metal film having a work function of 5 eV or more. By using a metal having a high work function (5 eV or more) for the second conductive layer 7, bending of the band structure, which allows holes to flow smoothly, is easily generated at the interface between the light absorbing section or a layer on the light absorbing section side and the second conductive layer 7. Examples of materials for the second conductive layer 7 include metals such as Ni, Pt, and Pd. The film thickness of the second conductive layer 7 is preferably approximately 50 nm to 150 nm. The second conductive layer 7 may be formed by, for example, a sputtering method or a vacuum deposition method. Alternatively, conductive carbon materials such as graphite, graphene, carbon nanowires, carbon nanofibers, carbon nanotubes, and carbon black may be used. Basically, any conductive material may be used.

[0046] The light-absorbing portion described above includes a perovskite compound. In this embodiment, the porous electron transport layer 5, the insulating layer 6, and the second conductive layer 7 also contain light-absorbing portions. That is, the light-absorbing portions are disposed in the voids (which can also be variously expressed as gaps, holes, or cavities) of these layers. Preferably, these layers are filled with light-absorbing portions. The voids in the porous electron transport layer 5, the insulating layer 6, and the second conductive layer 7 are desirably filled with light-absorbing portions. As long as a solar cell has a photoelectric conversion function, it naturally includes a light-absorbing portion as a component. The light-absorbing portion generates electrons and holes by absorbing light. The electrons generated in the light-absorbing portion move to the electron transport layer, and the holes generated in the light-absorbing portion move to the second conductive layer 7, where the charges are separated. As long as a solar cell has a photoelectric conversion function, it can be confirmed that electrons and holes are generated by light absorption in areas containing appropriate materials. Therefore, it is not necessary to confirm the photoelectric conversion properties of the light-absorbing portion to confirm that it is a light-absorbing portion.

[0047] The light-absorbing portion refers to a specific portion that absorbs light (for example, a certain portion of a perovskite compound), and these portions can be collectively referred to as a light-absorbing layer. Here, the light-absorbing portion can refer to a portion of the light-absorbing layer. Furthermore, the light-absorbing layer can refer to a collection of light-absorbing portions that exist discretely in a region having a thickness (which does not need to be constant) in a certain direction.

[0048] The perovskite compound contained in the light-absorbing portion is composed of a compound represented by the general formula: ABX3 (1). While the composition ratio of each element is preferably 1:1:3, it does not necessarily have to be 1:1:3. The content ratio of each element may vary as appropriate, and each element does not necessarily have to be a single type. As long as the light-absorbing portion has a photoelectric conversion function, the perovskite compound contained in the light-absorbing portion exhibits the photoelectric conversion function. Therefore, even if there is a degree of freedom in the composition as described above regarding the composition ratio and the type of constituent elements, it is reasonable to consider that the function is exhibited. In general formula (1), A is an organic molecule (including an organic group or an organic cation, as defined herein), an inorganic atom or molecule (including an inorganic group or an inorganic cation, as defined herein), or a combination thereof; B is a metal atom or molecule (including a metal cation, as defined herein); and X is a halogen atom or molecule or a chalcogen atom or molecule (including a halogen anion or a chalcogen anion, as defined herein). In general formula (1), the three Xs may be the same or different. As long as a solar cell has a photoelectric conversion function, the perovskite compound contained in the light absorbing portion exhibits the photoelectric conversion function, and this should be taken into consideration. That is, if it is confirmed that a compound is a perovskite compound, it is reasonable to consider it a perovskite compound exhibiting a photoelectric conversion function. For example, it is sufficient to know that it contains organic molecules, metal atoms, and halogen atoms. Furthermore, as long as a solar cell has a photoelectric conversion function, it is sufficient to confirm that it is a perovskite compound if elements corresponding to A, B, and X are detected. For example, molecules containing carbon, nitrogen, and hydrogen are suitable as organic molecules, and therefore it is sufficient to detect carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, a metal element, and a halogen or chalcogen. Alternatively, it is sufficient to confirm that a compound is a perovskite compound if it contains A, B, and X. For example, it is sufficient to confirm that it contains inorganic atoms, metal atoms, and halogen atoms. Furthermore, as long as the solar cell has a photoelectric conversion function, it can be confirmed that it is a perovskite compound if elements corresponding to A, B, and X are detected.For example, cesium or rubidium is suitable as the inorganic atom, and therefore, it is sufficient to detect cesium or rubidium, a metal element, and a halogen or chalcogen. Furthermore, since it is a natural consequence that a solar cell has a crystalline structure as long as it has a photoelectric conversion function, it is not necessary to confirm that the compound is a perovskite compound. This does not exclude the inclusion of compounds other than perovskite compounds in the light-absorbing portion.

[0049] The light absorbing portion may contain an organic-inorganic hybrid compound. An organic-inorganic hybrid compound refers to a compound containing an inorganic material and an organic material. Organic-inorganic hybrid compounds also include perovskite compounds, and solar cells using perovskite compounds are also called organic-inorganic hybrid solar cells. "Organic" typically refers to a material composed of multiple carbon atoms. Note that graphite, graphene, carbon nanowires, carbon nanofibers, carbon nanotubes, and carbon materials such as carbon and carbon black that function as electrodes are not considered to be organic materials. In other words, organic refers to a material that contains multiple carbon atoms as one of its constituent elements, excluding the above-mentioned carbon materials such as graphite. "Inorganic" refers to a material that is not organic.

[0050] The light-absorbing portion may contain quantum dots. Quantum dots refer to dots with a maximum width of 100 nm or less. The shape of the quantum dots is not particularly limited as long as it satisfies the above-mentioned maximum width, and is not limited to a spherical three-dimensional shape (circular cross-sectional shape). For example, they may have a polygonal cross-sectional shape, a rod-like three-dimensional shape, a branch-like three-dimensional shape, a three-dimensional shape with an uneven surface, or a combination thereof. The quantum dots are typically made of a semiconductor. The semiconductor may be any material capable of absorbing light and may include at least the materials described below. The semiconductor may include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of II-VI group compounds, III-V group compounds, chalcogenides, and perovskite compounds. The II-VI group compounds refer to compounds containing II and VI elements, and the III-V group compounds refer to compounds containing III and V elements. Furthermore, Group II elements may include Group 2 and Group 12 elements, Group III elements may include Group 3 and Group 13 elements, Group V elements may include Group 5 and Group 15 elements, and Group VI elements may include Group 6 and Group 16 elements. Here, the numbering of element groups using Roman numerals is based on the old IUPAC system or the old CAS system, and the numbering of element groups using Arabic numerals is based on the current IUPAC system. The semiconductor may include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of MgS, MgSe, MgTe, CaS, CaSe, CaTe, SrS, SrSe, SrTe, BaS, BaSe, BaTe, ZnS, ZnSe, ZnTe, CdS, CdSe, CdTe, HgS, HgSe, HgTe, GaAs, GaP, InN, InAs, InP, and InSb.

[0051] In general formula (1), examples of the organic molecule represented by A include alkylamine, alkylammonium, and nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds. In the perovskite compound, the organic molecule represented by A may be only one type of organic molecule, or may be two or more types of organic molecules.

[0052] Examples of alkylamines include methylamine, ethylamine, propylamine, butylamine, pentylamine, hexylamine, dimethylamine, diethylamine, dipropylamine, dibutylamine, dipentylamine, dihexylamine, trimethylamine, triethylamine, tripropylamine, tributylamine, tripentylamine, trihexylamine, ethylmethylamine, methylpropylamine, butylmethylamine, methylpentylamine, hexylmethylamine, ethylpropylamine, and ethylbutylamine.

[0053] The alkylammonium is an ionized product of the alkylamine. Examples of the alkylammonium include methylammonium, ethylammonium, propylammonium, butylammonium, pentylammonium, hexylammonium, dimethylammonium, diethylammonium, dipropylammonium, dibutylammonium, dipentylammonium, dihexylammonium, trimethylammonium, triethylammonium, tripropylammonium, tributylammonium, tripentylammonium, trihexylammonium, ethylmethylammonium, methylpropylammonium, butylmethylammonium, methylpentylammonium, hexylmethylammonium, ethylpropylammonium, and ethylbutylammonium.

[0054] Examples of the nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound include imidazole, azole, pyrrole, aziridine, azirine, azetidine, azeto, azole, imidazoline, and carbazole. The nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound may be an ionized compound. As the ionized nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound, phenethylammonium is preferred.

[0055] In general formula (1), the organic molecule represented by A is preferably methylamine, ethylamine, propylamine, butylamine, pentylamine, hexylamine, methylammonium, ethylammonium, propylammonium, butylammonium, pentylammonium, hexylammonium, or phenethylammonium, more preferably methylamine, ethylamine, propylamine, methylammonium, ethylammonium, or propylammonium, and even more preferably methylammonium.

[0056] In general formula (1), examples of the metal atom represented by B include lead, tin, zinc, titanium, antimony, bismuth, nickel, iron, cobalt, silver, copper, gallium, germanium, magnesium, calcium, indium, aluminum, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, and europium. In the perovskite compound, the metal atom represented by B may be only one type of metal atom, or may be two or more types of metal atoms. From the viewpoint of improving the light absorption properties and charge generation properties of the perovskite compound, the metal atom represented by B is preferably a lead atom or a tin atom. From the viewpoint of reducing lead, a tin atom is preferred.

[0057] In general formula (1), examples of halogen atoms represented by X include fluorine atoms, chlorine atoms, bromine atoms, and iodine atoms, and examples of chalcogen atoms include oxygen atoms, sulfur atoms, selenium atoms, and tellurium atoms. In the perovskite compound, the halogen atoms or chalcogen atoms represented by X may be one type or two or more types. The halogen atom represented by X is preferably an iodine atom, from the viewpoint of enabling the perovskite compound to utilize light in a wide wavelength range. Specifically, of the three Xs, it is preferable that at least one X represents an iodine atom, and it is more preferable that all three Xs represent iodine atoms.

[0058] The perovskite compound is preferably a compound represented by the general formula "CH3NH3PbX3 (wherein X represents a halogen atom)", and more preferably CH3NH3PbI3. By using a compound represented by the general formula "CH3NH3PbX3" (particularly CH3NH3PbI3) as the perovskite compound, electrons and holes can be generated more efficiently in the perovskite compound, and as a result, the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the solar cell 10 can be further improved.

[0059] The photoelectric conversion layer is a layer that converts light into electricity. It can include a porous layer and a light-absorbing portion, and refers to a layer located between the first and second conductive layers. The light-absorbing portion is often located between the first and second conductive layers. In such cases, the photoelectric conversion layer is also located only between the first and second conductive layers. However, if the first and second conductive layers have a special shape, such as porous, the light-absorbing portion may be present in the area including the first and second conductive layers themselves. In such cases, the first and second conductive layers themselves, where the light-absorbing portion is located, can also be considered as the photoelectric conversion layer. Even in such cases, the photoelectric conversion layer is located at least between the first and second conductive layers. In other words, in any case, a solar cell is provided with a first conductive layer, a photoelectric conversion layer, and a second conductive layer, in that order from the substrate. This does not exclude the first and second conductive layers from being included in the first and second conductive layers themselves, nor does it exclude the presence of a photoelectric conversion layer in areas other than between the first and second conductive layers.

[0060] In this embodiment, the hole transport layer may be disposed between the perovskite compound, which is the light absorbing section, and the second conductive layer 7. The hole transport layer is a layer that has the function of transporting holes generated in the light absorbing section to the second conductive layer 7. It is self-evident that, as long as a solar cell has a photoelectric conversion function, the hole transport layer located on the hole transport side of the light absorbing section or on the hole transport side of the light absorbing section has a hole transport function, and no confirmation is required. In other words, as long as it functions as a solar cell, the layer located on the hole transport side (or the positive electrode side, similarly in this disclosure) of the light absorbing section or on the hole transport side of the light absorbing section is referred to as the hole transport layer. The hole transport layer may be composed of, for example, a material having a band gap of 2 eV or more and an ionization potential smaller (shallower) than 5.4 eV. The hole transport layer may be composed of an inorganic material. The thickness of the hole transport layer may be, for example, approximately 30 nm or more and 100 nm or less. Specific materials constituting the hole transport layer include oxides and sulfides such as copper oxide (CuO), zinc sulfide (ZnS), and nickel oxide. Fine particles of oxides or sulfides may also be used, or organic materials may be used. The hole transport layer may be capable of inhibiting electron transport (electron blocking), and may be accompanied by a separate electron blocking layer. Alternatively, there may be no hole transport layer, and an electron blocking layer may be used instead.

[0061] Next, a method for manufacturing the solar cell 10 will be described. When fabricating the solar cell 10, a laminated substrate is first fabricated using a typical photolithography process, screen printing process, or the like, in which the portions where each layer of the solar cell 10 will be provided are appropriately set. Specifically, a glass substrate having a fluorine-doped tin oxide film was used for the substrate 2 and the transparent electrode layer 3. A titanium oxide dense layer (corresponding to the dense electron transport layer 4) was then formed on the fluorine-doped tin oxide film using a spray pyrolysis method. Next, a titanium oxide paste was applied to the titanium oxide dense layer and dried to form a titanium oxide porous layer (corresponding to the porous electron transport layer 5). Next, a zirconium dioxide paste was applied to the titanium oxide porous layer and dried to form a zirconium dioxide porous layer (corresponding to the insulating layer 6). Next, a carbon paste was applied to the zirconium dioxide porous layer and dried to form a carbon porous layer (corresponding to the second conductive layer 7). As described above, a photolithography step or a screen printing step may be performed between steps of forming each layer in the laminated substrate, and the portion where each layer is to be provided may be appropriately set or shaped.

[0062] The fabricated laminated substrate has a porous layer, and a perovskite precursor solution containing a perovskite compound is dropped from the top of the laminated substrate and baked to fabricate a solar cell 10. In this embodiment, a perovskite precursor solution was prepared by mixing and stirring methylamine iodide (1.14 M), lead iodide (1.2 M), 5-aminovaleric acid hydroiodide (0.06 M), and γ-butyrolactone (solvent).

[0063] The perovskite precursor solution dropped onto the laminated substrate permeates the second conductive layer 7, the insulating layer 6, and the porous electron transport layer 5. After that, baking is performed to evaporate the perovskite precursor solution, thereby forming light absorbing portions in the pores of the second conductive layer 7, the insulating layer 6, and the porous electron transport layer 5.

[0064] 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the solar cell module at a portion where solar cells on the same level are connected to each other, that is, the cross-sectional view of the portion indicated by arrow P2 in FIG.

[0065] Figure 3 focuses on the parts where solar cell cells 10 in the same row are connected to each other, with the solar cell 10 on the left side of Figure 3 corresponding to one of the first cells 10A, and the solar cell 10 on the right side of Figure 3 corresponding to a different first cell 10A.

[0066] The solar cells 10 on the same level are provided with a transparent electrode layer 3 and a dense electron transport layer 4 so as to straddle each other, and the transparent electrode layer 3 and the dense electron transport layer 4 of each are connected to each other. In other words, the solar cells 10 on the same level are electrically connected to each other via the transparent electrode layer 3 and the dense electron transport layer 4.

[0067] The porous electron transport layer 5, insulating layer 6, and second conductive layer 7 are arranged in island-like spaces corresponding to the respective solar cells 10, and are laminated on the dense electron transport layer 4.

[0068] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the solar cell module at a portion where the electrodes of the solar cells are spaced apart, that is, the cross-sectional view of the portion indicated by arrow P3 in FIG.

[0069] 4 focuses on the portion where the electrodes of the solar cells 10 are spaced apart, with the solar cell 10 on the left side in Fig. 4 corresponding to the first cell 10A and the solar cell 10 on the right side in Fig. 4 corresponding to the second cell 10B. Note that the second cell 10B in Fig. 4 is different from the second cell 10B in Fig. 2. That is, Fig. 2 shows the second cell 10B (see Fig. 1) adjacent to the first cell 10A in the horizontal direction X, whereas Fig. 4 shows the second cell 10B adjacent to the first cell 10A in the vertical direction Y.

[0070] In the area where the electrodes are spaced apart, the transparent electrode layer 3, dense electron transport layer 4, porous electron transport layer 5, insulating layer 6, and second conductive layer 7 are arranged in an island-like arrangement, spaced apart, corresponding to each solar cell 10. The transparent electrode layer 3 and dense electron transport layer 4 in each solar cell 10 are spaced apart, and the insulating layer 6 covers the side surfaces of the transparent electrode layer 3 and dense electron transport layer 4. Between the first cell 10A and the second cell 10B, the end of the insulating layer 6 in the first cell 10A does not reach the insulating layer 6 of the second cell 10B, and the two are spaced apart, preventing direct current flow between them.

[0071] In this embodiment, even if the solar cell module 1 is covered by a linear shadow extending in the horizontal direction X, as shown in Fig. 1, the solar cells 10 in the same row have portions where they are offset from each other, so even if the solar cells 10 that are offset downward are entirely covered by the shadow, the solar cells 10 that are offset upward can have portions that are not covered by the shadow, and these portions can generate power. This makes it possible to suppress the impact of the shadow on all the solar cells 10 in the same row arranged in the horizontal direction X, making it less likely that a load will be applied to all the solar cells 10 in the same row, and improving resistance to the shadow. On the other hand, if the solar cells in the same row are not offset vertically or are single rectangular cells, it is likely that all the solar cells in the same row will be covered by the shadow, or that a single cell will be entirely covered by the shadow, resulting in no power generation in the same row and a large reverse voltage.

[0072] Furthermore, by arranging the solar cells 10 adjacent to each other in different stages, the solar cells 10 can be arranged densely, enabling efficient use of space. Furthermore, particularly by using a perovskite compound, patterns can be flexibly formed by printing, improving the degree of freedom in the shape of the solar cells 10.

[0073] In this embodiment, the horizontal direction X and the vertical direction Y are shown as directions in which the solar cells 10 are arranged, but this is not limiting and the direction in which the solar cells 10 are arranged changes depending on the orientation in which the solar cell module 1 is installed. Also, in Fig. 1, a configuration in which the solar cells 10 are arranged in four rows is shown, but this is not limiting and the number of rows in which the solar cells 10 are arranged may be changed as appropriate.

[0074] In this embodiment, a solar cell has been described using an MPLE (Multi Porous Layered Electrode) structure or MPLE type solar cell module as an example, but the solar cell module of the present disclosure is naturally not limited to this and can also be applied to a solar cell module with a planar structure or planar type, and can also be applied to solar cell modules of any other structure or type as long as there is no contradiction.

[0075] (Second embodiment) Next, a solar cell module 1 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the structure of the solar cell module 1 according to the second embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 4, and therefore the same reference numerals are used for common parts, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0076] FIG. 5 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the solar cell 10. Specifically, the solar cell 10 has a hexagonal shape when viewed from above. In FIG. 5 , focusing on the first cell 10A arranged second from the left, the lower left side faces the upper right side of the first cell 10A arranged first from the left in the same tier, and the upper left side faces the lower right side of the second cell 10B arranged first from the left in a different tier. Furthermore, the lower right side of the first cell 10A arranged second from the left faces the upper left side of the first cell 10A arranged third from the left in the same tier, and the upper right side faces the lower left side of the second cell 10B arranged third from the left in a different tier. Furthermore, the upper side of the first cell 10A arranged second from the left faces the lower side of the second cell 10B arranged second from the left in a different tier. As described above, the opposing sides of adjacent solar cell cells 10 in the horizontal direction X are inclined with respect to the vertical direction Y. In this way, the solar cell cells 10 are adjacent to each other via sides that are inclined with respect to the arrangement direction, so that the solar cell cells can be arranged with their positions shifted, thereby improving the resistance to linear shadows.

[0078] (Third embodiment) Next, a solar cell module 1 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the structure of the solar cell module 1 according to the third embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first and second embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 5, and therefore the same reference numerals are used for common parts, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0079] FIG. 6 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the solar cell 10. Specifically, the solar cell 10 has a diamond shape when viewed from above. Referring to FIG. 6 , when focusing on the first cell 10A arranged second from the left, the lower left side faces the upper right side of the first cell 10A arranged first from the left in the same row, and the upper left side faces the lower right side of the second cell 10B arranged first from the left in a different row. Furthermore, the lower right side of the first cell 10A arranged second from the left faces the upper left side of the first cell 10A arranged third from the left in the same row, and the upper right side faces the lower left side of the second cell 10B arranged third from the left in a different row. Furthermore, the upper end of the first cell 10A arranged second from the left is adjacent to the lower end of the second cell 10B arranged second from the left in a different row. As described above, the opposing sides of adjacent solar cells 10 in the horizontal direction X are inclined with respect to the vertical direction Y.

[0081] In this embodiment, the solar cell 10 has a long width in the horizontal direction X. Furthermore, each side of the solar cell 10 is gradually shifted upward or downward. That is, at least a portion of the side of the solar cell 10 along the horizontal direction X has a portion that is shifted in position in the vertical direction Y compared to other portions. Because the solar cell 10 has a portion that is shifted in position in the vertical direction Y in this way, even if the solar cell module 1 is covered by a linear shadow, it is difficult for a load to be generated on the solar cell 10, and the resistance to the shadow can be improved.

[0082] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a solar cell module 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the structure of the solar cell module 1 according to the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first to third embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 6, and therefore the same reference numerals are used for common parts, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0083] FIG. 7 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the arrangement of the solar cell 10 in the same row. In this embodiment, the solar cell 10 has a rectangular shape when viewed from above. The solar cell 10 in the same row are arranged in the horizontal direction X at a distance corresponding to one solar cell 10. The solar cell 10 in a different row is arranged between the solar cell 10 arranged at a distance. Specifically, focusing on the first cell 10A, the second cell 10B arranged first from the left is arranged between the first cell 10A arranged first from the left and the first cell 10A arranged second from the left. The second cell 10B is located slightly above the first cell 10A. In this way, the solar cell 10 in different rows (for example, the first cell 10A and the second cell 10B) are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction X, shifted alternately up and down. Moreover, a third cell 10C is disposed above the first cell 10A, and a fourth cell 10D is disposed above the second cell 10B.

[0085] The solar cell 10 is adjacent to a solar cell 10 arranged in a different tier in the horizontal direction X. Specifically, for the second cell 10B arranged first from the left, the lower part of the left side faces the upper part of the right side of the first cell 10A arranged first from the left in a different tier, and the upper part of the left side faces the lower part of the right side of the third cell 10C arranged first from the left in a different tier. Furthermore, for the second cell 10B arranged first from the left, the lower part of the right side faces the upper part of the left side of the first cell 10A arranged second from the left in a different tier, and the upper part of the right side faces the lower part of the left side of the third cell 10C arranged second from the left in a different tier. Furthermore, the upper side of the second cell 10B arranged first from the left faces the lower side of the fourth cell 10D arranged first from the left, which is two tiers away. As described above, by making the uppermost or lowermost positions in the vertical direction Y of the solar battery cells 10 adjacent in the horizontal direction X different, portions that are misaligned in the vertical direction Y are provided.

[0086] The area indicated by arrow P4 corresponds to the area where solar cells 10 in different rows are connected to each other, and has the same structure as that shown in Figure 2. The area indicated by arrow P5 corresponds to the area where the electrodes of solar cells 10 are spaced apart, and has approximately the same structure as that shown in Figure 4.

[0087] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a solar cell module 1 according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the structure of the solar cell module 1 according to the fifth embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first to fourth embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 7, and therefore the same reference numerals are used for common parts, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0088] FIG. 8 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] The fifth embodiment differs from the fourth embodiment in the shape of the solar cell 10. In this embodiment, the solar cell 10 has a hexagonal shape when viewed from above. In this embodiment, the solar cell 10 is arranged in substantially the same manner as in the fourth embodiment, and the solar cell 10 in the same row are arranged in the horizontal direction X at a distance equivalent to one solar cell 10, and solar cell 10 in different rows are arranged between the solar cell 10 arranged at a distance.

[0090] FIG. 9 is a circuit diagram of the solar cell module shown in FIG.

[0091] FIG. 9 shows a circuit diagram of the portion of the solar cell module 1 shown in FIG. 8. The solar cell cells 10 are connected in a mesh pattern and electrically connected to two or more solar cell cells 10 arranged in different stages. Specifically, four first cells 10A connected in parallel are connected in series to four second cells 10B connected in parallel. Similarly, four second cells 10B are connected in series to four third cells 10C connected in parallel. In other words, multiple solar cell cells 10 arranged in the same stage are electrically connected to multiple solar cell cells 10 arranged in different stages. By connecting the solar cell cells 10 in this mesh pattern, even if a single solar cell 10 stops flowing current due to shadowing, the current can be diverted through adjacent solar cell 10. Furthermore, in the case of a large shadow that spans multiple cells, such as a linear shadow, the shape of the cells prevents the burden from being concentrated on a cell with a specific potential. In the case of a small shadow equivalent to a portion of the multiple cells connected in parallel, the circuit configuration divertes the current, thereby significantly improving shadow resistance. Furthermore, since the lines separating and connecting the cells can both be made translucent, a see-through module can be fabricated by increasing the translucent area of ​​these parts. Note that, although the four cells connected in parallel are illustrated and described here as being connected in four stages in series, this is not limiting. Any number of cells connected in parallel may be connected in series in multiple stages. The greater the number of cells connected in parallel and the greater the number of stages connected in series, the greater the number of detour paths, which is desirable.

[0092] (Sixth embodiment) Next, a solar cell module 1 according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the structure of the solar cell module 1 according to the sixth embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first to fifth embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 9, and therefore the same reference numerals are used for common parts, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0093] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] The sixth embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in the shape of the solar cell 10. In this embodiment, the solar cell 10 has a triangular shape when viewed from above. In this embodiment, similar to the fifth embodiment, solar cell 10 of the same stage are arranged in the horizontal direction X at a distance equivalent to one solar cell 10, and solar cell 10 of a different stage are arranged between the solar cell 10 arranged at a distance.

[0095] Specifically, the first cell 10A and the third cell 10C are triangular with an upward convex shape, and the second cell 10B and the fourth cell 10D are triangular with a downward convex shape. The second cell 10B, which is the first cell from the left, is disposed between the first cell 10A disposed first from the left and the first cell 10A disposed second from the left. The first cell 10A and the second cell 10B are substantially overlapping in the vertical direction Y. In the vertical direction Y, the upper end of the first cell 10A is substantially aligned with the upper edge of the second cell 10B, and the lower end of the second cell 10B is substantially aligned with the lower edge of the first cell 10A.

[0096] The third cell 10C is disposed above the second cell 10B, and the fourth cell 10D is disposed above the first cell 10A. The bottom side of the third cell 10C faces the top side of the second cell 10B, and the bottom end of the fourth cell 10D is adjacent to the top end of the first cell 10A. In other words, the third cell 10C and the fourth cell 10D are positioned in a positional relationship that is the upside-down relationship of the first cell 10A and the second cell 10B. Note that the solar cell 10 located at the end (the left end or the right end in FIG. 10) may have a partially cut-out shape depending on the shape of the solar cell module 1.

[0097] FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram of the solar cell module shown in FIG.

[0098] FIG. 11 shows a circuit diagram of the portion of the solar cell module 1 shown in FIG. 10 . Four parallel-connected first cells 10A are connected in series to three parallel-connected second cells 10B. The corresponding second cells 10B are connected in series to the corresponding third cells 10C. The parallel-connected three third cells 10C are then connected in series to four parallel-connected fourth cells 10D. In other words, multiple solar cell cells 10 arranged in the same row are electrically connected to multiple solar cell cells 10 arranged in different rows. By connecting the solar cell cells 10 in a mesh-like pattern, even if a single solar cell 10 stops flowing current due to shadowing, the current can be diverted through adjacent solar cell 10. Furthermore, for large shadows that span multiple cells, such as linear shadows, the cell shape prevents the load from concentrating on a specific cell at a specific potential. For small shadows equivalent to a portion of the parallel-connected cells, the circuit configuration divertes the current, significantly improving resistance to shadows. Furthermore, since the lines separating and connecting the cells can both be made translucent, a see-through module can be fabricated by increasing the translucent area of ​​these parts. Note that, although the four cells connected in parallel are illustrated and described here as being connected in four stages in series, this is not limiting. Any number of cells connected in parallel may be connected in series in multiple stages. The greater the number of cells connected in parallel and the greater the number of stages connected in series, the greater the number of detour paths, which is desirable.

[0099] (Seventh embodiment) Next, a solar cell module 1 according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the structure of the solar cell module 1 according to the seventh embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first to sixth embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 11, and therefore the same reference numerals are used for common parts, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0100] FIG. 12 is a schematic top view showing a solar cell module according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] The seventh embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the shape of the solar cell 10. In the first embodiment, the solar cell 10 of the same row was lined up in the horizontal direction X, but in the present embodiment, the solar cell 10 of the same row is connected to form an integrated shape, and the solar cell 10 has a long width in the horizontal direction X. At least a part of the side of the solar cell 10 along the horizontal direction X has a portion that is shifted in position in the vertical direction Y compared to the other portions. For example, when looking at the top side of the first cell 10A, it is not simply a straight line, but is bent so that a portion protrudes upward.

[0102] In this embodiment, a configuration in which rectangular solar cell cells 10 are connected together has been shown, but this is not limited to this, and for example, as in the second and third embodiments, a configuration in which solar cell cells 10 of different shapes, such as hexagonal or diamond-shaped, are connected together may also be used.

[0103] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not intended to be limiting. Therefore, the technical scope of the present disclosure should not be interpreted solely by the above-described embodiments, but should be defined based on the claims. Furthermore, all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the claims are included.

[0104] (Addendum) (Aspect 1) A solar cell module having a plurality of solar cells, The plurality of solar cells arranged in a first direction are arranged in a plurality of rows in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the second direction is a direction in which a voltage of the solar cell module as a whole increases or decreases; The solar cells adjacent to each other in the first direction have portions where one of the solar cells is shifted in position in the second direction relative to the other. A solar cell module characterized by: (Aspect 2) A solar cell module having a plurality of solar cells, The solar cell having a long width in a first direction is arranged in a plurality of rows in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the second direction is a direction in which a voltage of the solar cell module as a whole increases or decreases; At least a part of the side of the solar cell along the first direction has a portion that is shifted in position in the second direction compared to other portions. A solar cell module characterized by: (Aspect 3) The solar cell module according to aspect 1 or aspect 2, The solar cell is electrically connected to two or more solar cells arranged in different stages. A solar cell module characterized by: (Aspect 4) The solar cell module according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, The plurality of solar cells arranged in the same stage and the plurality of solar cells arranged in different stages are electrically connected to each other. A solar cell module characterized by: (Aspect 5) The solar cell module according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, The solar cell is adjacent to a solar cell arranged in a different stage in the first direction. A solar cell module characterized by: (Aspect 6) The solar cell module according to any one of aspects 1 to 5, The solar cell includes a base body, a first conductive layer, a photoelectric conversion layer, and a second conductive layer in this order, The photoelectric conversion layer contains a perovskite compound. A solar cell module characterized by: (Aspect 7) The solar cell module according to any one of aspects 1 to 6, The opposing sides of adjacent solar cells in the first direction are inclined with respect to the second direction. A solar cell module characterized by: (Aspect 8) The solar cell module according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, The solar cell is triangular in shape. A solar cell module characterized by: (Aspect 9) The solar cell module according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, The solar cell is hexagonal in shape. A solar cell module characterized by: (Aspect 10) The solar cell module according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, The solar cell is rectangular. A solar cell module characterized by: [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 1. Solar cell module 2 Base 3 Transparent electrode layer 4 Dense electron transport layer 5 Porous electron transport layer 6 insulating layer 7 Second conductive layer 10 solar cells 10A 1st cell 10B Second cell 10C 3rd cell 10D 4th cell X horizontal direction Y vertical direction

Claims

1. A solar cell module having a plurality of solar cells, The plurality of solar cells arranged in a first direction are arranged in a plurality of rows in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the second direction is a direction in which a voltage of the solar cell module as a whole increases or decreases; The solar cells adjacent to each other in the first direction have portions that are misaligned in the second direction with respect to each other. A solar cell module characterized by:

2. A solar cell module having a plurality of solar cells, The solar cell having a long width in a first direction is arranged in a plurality of rows in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the second direction is a direction in which a voltage of the solar cell module as a whole increases or decreases; At least a part of the side of the solar cell along the first direction has a portion that is shifted in position in the second direction compared to other portions. A solar cell module characterized by:

3. The solar cell module according to claim 1 or 2, The solar cell is electrically connected to two or more solar cells arranged in different stages. A solar cell module characterized by:

4. The solar cell module according to claim 1 or 2, The plurality of solar cells arranged in the same stage and the plurality of solar cells arranged in different stages are electrically connected to each other. A solar cell module characterized by:

5. The solar cell module according to claim 1 or 2, the solar cell is adjacent to a solar cell arranged in a different stage in the first direction; A solar cell module characterized by:

6. The solar cell module according to claim 1 or 2, The solar cell includes a base body, a first conductive layer, a photoelectric conversion layer, and a second conductive layer in this order, The photoelectric conversion layer contains a perovskite compound. A solar cell module characterized by:

7. The solar cell module according to claim 1 or 2, The opposing sides of adjacent solar cells in the first direction are inclined with respect to the second direction. A solar cell module characterized by:

8. The solar cell module according to claim 1 or 2, The solar cell is triangular in shape. A solar cell module characterized by:

9. The solar cell module according to claim 1 or 2, The solar cell is hexagonal in shape. A solar cell module characterized by:

10. The solar cell module according to claim 1, The solar cell is rectangular. A solar cell module characterized by:

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