Power generation module and method for manufacturing power generation module

Abstract

A power generation module (100) according to the present disclosure comprises: a translucent substrate (2); a power generation unit (3) that is disposed on a main surface (a1) of the substrate (2) and that includes a photovoltaic cell layer (PV); a first electrode (11) that is translucent and is electrically connected to the power generation unit (3); and a second electrode (41, 42) that is electrically connected to the first electrode (11) and has an electrical resistivity lower than that of the first electrode (11). The substrate (2) further has a rear surface (a2) positioned on the opposite side from the main surface (a1) in the thickness direction, and a side surface (b1, b2) that connects the main surface (a1) and the rear surface (a2). At least a part of the first electrode (11) is provided to the main surface (a1), and at least a part of the second electrode (41, 42) is provided to the side surface (b1, b2).

Description

Power generation module and method for manufacturing the power generation module

[0001] The present disclosure relates to power generation modules, particularly photovoltaic power generation modules.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a photovoltaic power generation module in which a power generation section having a photoelectric conversion layer is formed on the main surface of a substrate.

[0003] JP 2014-27138 A

[0004] In photovoltaic modules, there is a demand for a higher ratio of the effective light-receiving area to the area of ​​the light-receiving surface (e.g., the area of ​​the main surface of the substrate). In this specification, the ratio of the effective light-receiving area to the area of ​​the light-receiving surface is referred to as the "light-receiving area ratio." In addition, there is a demand for photovoltaic modules with improved design when viewed along the normal direction of the light-receiving surface.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to solve the above-mentioned problems and to provide a power generation module that can increase the light-receiving area ratio or improve the design.

[0006] The power generation module of the present disclosure comprises a translucent substrate, a power generation unit arranged on a main surface of the substrate and including a solar cell layer, a first electrode electrically connected to the power generation unit and having translucency, and a second electrode electrically connected to the first electrode and having a lower electrical resistivity than the first electrode, wherein the substrate further has a back surface located opposite the main surface in the thickness direction, and a side surface connecting the main surface and the back surface, and at least a portion of the first electrode is provided on the main surface, and at least a portion of the second electrode is provided on the side surface.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a power generation module that can increase the light-receiving area ratio or improve the design.

[0008] 6A is a schematic exploded perspective view of a power generation module according to a first embodiment. FIG. 6B is a schematic top view of the power generation module of FIG. 1 excluding the upper substrate. FIG. 6C is a schematic side view of the power generation module of FIG. 1 as viewed along the y direction. FIG. 6D is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 2. FIG. 6E is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line V-V of FIG. 2. FIG. 6F is a cross-sectional view showing steps of a method for manufacturing the power generation module of FIG. 1. FIG. 6G is a cross-sectional view showing steps of a method for manufacturing the power generation module of FIG. 1. FIG. 6H is a cross-sectional view showing steps of a method for manufacturing the power generation module of FIG. 1. FIG. 6H is a plan view of the step shown in FIG. 6A. FIG. 6I is a schematic exploded perspective view of a power generation module of Modification 1. FIG. 6J is a schematic exploded perspective view of another power generation module of Modification 1 excluding the upper substrate and sealing member. FIG. 6J is a schematic exploded perspective view of yet another power generation module of Modification 1 excluding the upper substrate and sealing member. FIG. 6I is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another power generation module of Modification 1. FIG. 6I is a schematic exploded perspective view of a power generation module of Modification 2. FIG. 6I is a schematic top view of the power generation module of FIG. 12. FIG. 6I is a schematic top view of a power generation module of Modification 3. 23 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a power generation module according to a second embodiment. A schematic top view of the power generation module of FIG. 15 excluding the upper substrate. A schematic cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII of FIG. 16. A schematic cross-sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII of FIG. 16. A schematic cross-sectional view taken along line XIX-XIX of FIG. 16. Cross-sectional views illustrating steps of a method for manufacturing the power generation module of FIG. 15 ... A schematic perspective view of a power generation module of Modification 4. A schematic perspective view of another power generation module of Modification 4. A schematic top view of a power generation device according to a third embodiment. A schematic cross-sectional view taken along line XXIV-XXIV of FIG. 23. A schematic exploded perspective view of a power generation module of a reference example. A schematic top view of a power generation module of a reference example.

[0009] <Findings that Form the Basis of the Present Disclosure> In a solar photovoltaic module, for example, a power generating unit and a pair of external electrodes (also referred to as "extraction electrodes") for extracting electric power from the power generating unit to the outside are provided on the main surface of a substrate. Low-resistance metal wiring is typically used for the external electrodes. Because such external electrodes are not translucent, they may block light that enters the power generating module from the normal direction of the main surface of the substrate. Furthermore, on the main surface of the substrate, areas where the external electrodes are formed may not have solar cells formed therein, resulting in non-light-receiving areas. Therefore, if the total area of ​​the external electrodes formed on the main surface of the substrate (hereinafter referred to as the "external electrode area") is large, the ratio of the light-receiving area to the area of ​​the main surface of the substrate (light-receiving area ratio) may decrease. This may result in a decrease in the amount of power generated by the power generating module or make it difficult to miniaturize the power generating module. Furthermore, if the external electrode area on the main surface of the substrate is large, the design of the power generating module may be impaired. This may particularly deteriorate the appearance of the power generating module when the external electrodes are routed to desired positions on the main surface of the substrate.

[0010] The inventors have therefore discovered a structure in which at least a portion of the external electrodes are formed on the side surfaces of the substrate. This structure allows the area of ​​the external electrodes formed on the main surface of the substrate to be reduced, thereby increasing the light-receiving area ratio. Furthermore, the external electrodes are less visible when viewed along the normal direction to the main surface of the substrate, thereby improving the design of the power generation module. Based on this novel finding, the inventors have come up with the following disclosure.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. In addition, substantially identical components in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations are omitted as appropriate. For illustrative purposes, the dimensions of each element in the drawings may be exaggerated and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0012] Furthermore, for the sake of convenience, the following uses terms indicating directions such as "up," "down," "right," "left," and "side," assuming a state of normal use, but this does not mean to limit the state of use of the power generation module according to the present disclosure.

[0013] In the drawings described below, for reference, mutually orthogonal x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are schematically shown. In the following description, when simply referring to the x-direction, y-direction, or z-direction, it refers to the respective axial direction, and includes two opposite directions (for example, the -x-direction and the +x-direction).

[0014] First Embodiment The basic configuration of a power generation module according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the power generation module according to this embodiment, and Figure 2 is a schematic top view of the power generation module of Figure 1 excluding the upper substrate. Figure 3 is a schematic side view of the power generation module of Figure 1 as viewed along the y direction. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV shown in Figure 2. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line V-V shown in Figure 2.

[0015] 1 to 5, the power generating module 100 includes a substrate 2, a power generating unit 3, a pair of first electrodes 11 and 12 electrically connected to the power generating unit 3, and a pair of second electrodes 41 and 42. The first electrode 11 is electrically connected to the second electrode 41, and the first electrode 12 is electrically connected to the second electrode 42. The second electrodes 41 and 42 are extraction electrodes (external electrodes) for extracting power from the power generating unit 3 to the outside.

[0016] The z direction shown in Figures 1 to 5 corresponds to the thickness direction of the substrate 2 of the power generation module 100. In addition, directions perpendicular to each other in a plane perpendicular to the z direction are defined as the x direction and the y direction. As shown in Figure 2, for convenience, the direction parallel to the long side of the rectangular substrate 2 is defined as the x direction, and the direction parallel to the short side is defined as the y direction. Note that the planar shape of the substrate 2 is not limited to a rectangular shape.

[0017] The substrate 2 is, for example, a glass substrate or a resin substrate. There are no particular limitations on the thickness of the substrate 2, but it may be 3 mm or more. Depending on the application, for example, a glass substrate with a thickness of about 6 mm to 8 mm can be used as the substrate 2. The substrate 2 is translucent. In this specification, "translucent" means transparency to visible light. "Having translucency" means, for example, that the transmittance of visible light is 50% or more, preferably 70% or more.

[0018] The substrate 2 has a main surface a1, a back surface a2 located opposite the main surface a1 in the z direction, and side surfaces connecting the main surface a1 and the back surface a2. In the illustrated example, the substrate 2 is generally rectangular parallelepiped-shaped, and the side surfaces of the substrate 2 include a first side surface b1 and a third side surface b3 that face each other in the y direction, and a second side surface b2 and a fourth side surface b4 that face each other in the x direction. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the main surface a1 has a first side e1 and a third side e3 that face each other in the y direction, and a second side e2 and a fourth side e4 that face each other in the x direction. The first side surface b1 to the fourth side surface b4 are surfaces that are continuous with the first side e1 to the fourth side e4 of the main surface a1, respectively.

[0019] In the example shown in Figures 1 to 5, the shape of the substrate 2 is a rectangular parallelepiped, with the first side e1 to the fourth side e4 being straight lines and the first side b1 to the fourth side b4 being flat lines. Note that the shape of the substrate 2 is not limited to a rectangular parallelepiped. The shape and number of side surfaces may vary depending on the shape of the substrate. The angle between the main surface and the side surfaces of the substrate is also not limited to 90°. Furthermore, depending on the shape of the substrate, some or all of the sides of the main surface may be curved (for example, arc-shaped lines), and some or all of the side surfaces of the substrate may be curved surfaces.

[0020] The power generation unit 3 is disposed on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. The power generation unit 3 may be disposed over substantially the entire main surface a1. The power generation unit 3 includes a solar cell layer (also referred to as a "photoelectric conversion layer"). The power generation unit 3 generates electricity by, for example, converting light incident from below (the -z side) of the power generation module 100 through the substrate 2 into electricity. The power generation unit 3 may have at least one solar cell. In this embodiment, the power generation unit 3 includes a plurality of solar cell cells 31 to 33 (three in this case) connected in series. The solar cell cells 31 to 33 are arranged in the y direction. The structure of the solar cell cells 31 to 33 will be described later.

[0021] One of the first electrodes 11, 12 is the positive electrode of the power generation unit 3, and the other is the negative electrode of the power generation unit 3. In the example shown, of the solar cell cells 31 to 33 that make up the power generation unit 3, the solar cell 31 that is closest to the first side e1 is electrically connected to the first electrode 11. The solar cell 33 that is closest to the third side e3 is electrically connected to the first electrode 12.

[0022] The first electrodes 11 and 12 are translucent. At least a portion of the first electrode 11 and at least a portion of the first electrode 12 are provided on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. In this embodiment, the first electrode 11 extends along the first edge e1 on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 in a region near the first side surface b1 of the power generation unit 3. The first electrode 12 extends along the third edge e3 on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 in a region near the third side surface b3 of the power generation unit 3.

[0023] As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 5, the first electrode 11 may have a first portion 11a provided on the principal surface a1 and a second portion 11b provided on the first side surface b1. The first electrode 11 may be, for example, an L-shaped electrode extending from the principal surface a1 through a corner between the principal surface a1 and the first side surface b1 to the first side surface b1. Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the first electrode 12 may have a first portion 12a provided on the principal surface a1 and a second portion 12b provided on the third side surface b3. The first electrode 12 may be, for example, an L-shaped electrode extending from the principal surface a1 through a corner between the principal surface a1 and the third side surface b3 to the third side surface b3.

[0024] The second electrodes 41, 42 are electrodes having a lower specific resistance (electrical resistivity) than the first electrodes 11, 12. In this embodiment, the second electrodes 41, 42 are electrodes (e.g., metal electrodes) having a lower visible light transmittance than the first electrodes 11, 12. The second electrodes 41, 42 do not need to be translucent. For example, wires (tab wires) made of copper wires coated with solder may be used as the second electrodes 41, 42.

[0025] Here, we have described the case where the second electrodes 41, 42 are electrodes having a lower resistivity than the first electrodes 11, 12. However, if the first electrodes 11, 12 and the second electrodes 41, 42 are both made of materials having a low resistivity (electrical resistivity) (for example, metal materials such as silver, copper, and aluminum, alloy materials, carbon materials such as graphite and carbon nanotubes), the resistivity of the second electrodes 41, 42 does not necessarily have to be lower than the resistivity of the first electrodes 11, 12.

[0026] At least a portion of the second electrodes 41, 42 is provided on a side surface of the substrate 2. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 5 , the second electrode 41 is provided on the first side surface b1 of the substrate 2. The second electrode 41 is electrically connected to the second portion 11b of the first electrode 11 on the first side surface b1. The second electrode 41 may extend on the first electrode 11 along the first edge e1 on the first side surface b1. Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5 , the second electrode 42 is provided on the third side surface b3 of the substrate 2. The second electrode 42 is electrically connected to the second portion 12b of the first electrode 12 on the third side surface b3. The second electrode 42 may extend on the first electrode 12 along the third edge e3 on the third side surface b3.

[0027] On the side surface of the substrate 2, the line width of the second electrodes 41, 42 may be less than the thickness of the substrate 2 (the height of the side surface of the substrate 2). In addition, the aspect ratio (thickness / line width) of the second electrodes 41, 42 may be less than 1. By making the thickness of the second electrodes 41, 42 smaller than the line width, the portions of the second electrodes 41, 42 provided on the side surface of the substrate 2 can be made even less visible from the z direction. This can further improve the appearance of the power generation module 100.

[0028] The first electrodes 11, 12 and the second electrodes 41, 42 may extend over substantially the entire length of the solar cells 31 to 33 in the power generation unit 3. The "length of a solar cell" refers to, for example, the length in the direction (here, the length in the x direction) perpendicular to the direction of current flow (here, the y direction) in the solar cell. With this configuration, it is possible to further reduce the electrical resistance when extracting the power generated in the solar cells 31 to 33 via the first electrodes 11, 12 and the second electrodes 41, 42.

[0029] The power generation module 100 may further include an upper substrate 7. The upper substrate 7 is disposed so as to face the substrate 2 with the power generation unit 3 interposed therebetween. The upper substrate 7 may be translucent. This makes it possible to obtain a power generation module 100 that is transmissive to visible light. Furthermore, light from above the power generation module 100 can also be incident on the power generation unit 3 through the upper substrate 7, allowing the power generation module 100 to function as a bifacial module. The upper substrate 7 may be a glass substrate or a resin substrate.

[0030] The power generation module 100 may further include a sealing member 6 provided on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. The sealing member 6 may be made of, for example, a thermoplastic elastomer containing butyl rubber. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the sealing member 6 forms a space (sealed space) 60 on the main surface a1 that is sealed from the outside. The sealing member 6 prevents moisture and gas from entering the sealed space 60 from outside the power generation module 100. The power generation unit 3 is located within the sealed space 60. At least a portion of the second electrodes 41, 42 is disposed outside the sealing member 6 and can be used for electrical connection with the outside.

[0031] In this embodiment, the sealing member 6 is disposed, for example, on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 so as to surround the power generation unit 3. The sealing member 6 may be disposed along the periphery of the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 (here, the first side e1 to the fourth side e4).

[0032] 5 , the sealing member 6 is disposed between the substrate 2 and the upper substrate 7, defining a sealed space 60 between these substrates that is sealed from the outside. The power generation unit 3 and at least a portion of the first electrodes 11 and 12 are disposed in the sealed space 60. The second portions 11 b and 12 b of the first electrodes 11 and 12 and the second electrodes 41 and 42 are disposed outside the sealing member 6. When viewed along the z direction, each of the first electrodes 11 and 12 extends from within the sealed space 60 across the sealed space 60 to the outside of the sealing member 6. In this example, each of the first electrodes 11 and 12 extends from within the sealed space 60, passing between the sealing member 6 and the substrate 2, to the outside of the sealing member 6.

[0033] A region of the sealed space 60 where the power generating unit 3, electrodes 11, 12, etc. are not formed may be filled with a filler 5. This can suppress the influence of air on the solar cell layer PV in the sealed space 60. The sealed space 60 may be filled with the filler 5, or an air layer may be formed partially in the sealed space 60. For example, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyolefin (PO), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), etc. may be used as the filler 5.

[0034] The sealed space 60 may be hollow and not filled with the filler material 5. In this case, the sealed space 60 may be filled with a gas such as air, nitrogen, or argon.

[0035] (Configuration of solar cell) As shown in Figure 5, each of the solar cell cells 31 to 33 has a laminated structure including an upper transparent electrode UE, a lower transparent electrode LE located between the upper transparent electrode UE and the substrate 2, and a solar cell layer PV located between the lower transparent electrode LE and the upper transparent electrode UE in the z direction.

[0036] In this embodiment, of two adjacent solar cells, the upper transparent electrode UE of one solar cell is electrically connected to the lower transparent electrode LE of the other solar cell. In this manner, the multiple solar cells 31 to 33 constituting the power generation unit 3 are connected in series. Of the multiple solar cells 31 to 33, one transparent electrode (here, the lower transparent electrode LE) of the solar cell 31 closest to the first side surface b1 is electrically connected to the first electrode 11. In FIG. 5 , the lower transparent electrode LE and the first electrode 11 are integrally formed (connected). Similarly, one transparent electrode (here, the upper transparent electrode UE) of the solar cell 33 closest to the third side surface b3 is electrically connected to the first electrode 12.

[0037] In the example shown in Figure 5, the lower transparent electrodes LE of two adjacent solar cells are separated from each other by a first separation groove s1. The solar cell layers PV and upper transparent electrodes UE of two adjacent solar cells are separated from each other by a second separation groove s2. The first separation groove s1 and the second separation groove s2 extend in the y direction, for example, so as not to overlap each other when viewed along the z direction. The upper transparent electrode UE of each solar cell is electrically connected to the lower transparent electrode LE of the adjacent solar cell, for example, within the second separation groove s2.

[0038] The solar cell layer PV is a layer (photoelectric conversion layer) that converts absorbed light into electricity. The solar cell layer PV includes, for example, a light absorbing layer. The solar cell layer PV may further include an electron transport layer and / or a hole transport layer as necessary. The solar cell layer PV is, for example, a stacked film including, from the substrate 2 side, an n-type semiconductor layer (electron transport layer), an i-type semiconductor layer (light absorbing layer), and a p-type semiconductor layer (hole transport layer).

[0039] The solar cell layer PV (light absorbing layer) contains, for example, a perovskite compound (perovskite semiconductor) as a photoelectric conversion material. The perovskite compound has the chemical formula ABX ３and structures having crystals similar thereto. A is a monovalent cation, B is a divalent cation, and X is a halogen anion. The solar cell layer PV may contain a silicon semiconductor instead of the perovskite semiconductor. Note that the photoelectric conversion material contained in the solar cell layer PV is not limited to a perovskite compound, and may be other known materials such as silicon-based materials.

[0040] The lower transparent electrode LE and the upper transparent electrode UE are, for example, a light-transmitting metal oxide layer such as an indium tin oxide (ITO), an indium zinc oxide (IZO), or a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) layer. In the case of a single-sided light-receiving power generation module 100 that receives light only from the substrate 2 side, a non-light-transmitting electrode may be used instead of the upper transparent electrode UE.

[0041] (Method of manufacturing the power generation module 100) An example of a method of manufacturing the power generation module 100 will be described with reference to Figures 6A to 6E and 7. Figures 6A to 6E are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating steps in the method of manufacturing the power generation module. Figure 7 is a schematic top view of the step shown in Figure 6A.

[0042] First, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 7, a substrate 2 is prepared, on whose main surface a1 are formed a plurality of transparent electrodes including a plurality of (three in this case) lower transparent electrodes LE and first electrodes 11 and 12.

[0043] For example, a glass substrate is used as the substrate 2. Alternatively, a substrate whose main surface is covered with a transparent conductive film (for example, an FTO substrate covered with an FTO film) may be used.

[0044] In this embodiment, a transparent conductive film (e.g., an FTO film) is formed on the principal surface a1, first side surface b1, and third side surface b3 of the substrate 2, and then the transparent conductive film is patterned. As a result, three lower transparent electrodes LE and first portions 11a and 12a of the first electrodes 11 and 12 are formed on the principal surface a1. In addition, the second portion 11b of the first electrode 11 is formed on the first side surface b1 of the substrate 2, and the second portion 12b of the first electrode 12 is formed on the third side surface b3 of the substrate 2.

[0045] Known methods such as sputtering and coating can be used to form the transparent conductive film on the main surface a1 and side surfaces of the substrate 2. When using a substrate whose main surface is pre-coated with a transparent conductive film, such as an FTO substrate, the lower transparent electrode LE, the first portion 11a of the first electrode 11, and the first portion 12a of the first electrode 12 may be formed by patterning the transparent conductive film coating the main surface.

[0046] 7, two adjacent lower transparent electrodes LE are separated from each other by a first separation groove s1 extending along the x-direction. In this example, the first portion 11a of the first electrode 11 is integrally formed (connected) with the lower transparent electrode LE closest to the first side surface b1. The first portion 12a of the first electrode 12 is disposed at a distance from the lower transparent electrode LE closest to the third side surface b3.

[0047] 6B , a plurality of (here, three) solar cell layers PV are formed on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. Each solar cell layer PV is disposed, for example, so as to straddle two adjacent transparent electrodes among the plurality of transparent electrodes formed on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2.

[0048] In this embodiment, a solar cell film is formed to cover the lower transparent electrodes LE and the first separation grooves s1, and the solar cell film is then patterned. As a result, solar cell layers PV are formed on each lower transparent electrode LE. In the example shown in FIG. 6B , two adjacent solar cell layers PV are separated from each other by a second separation groove s2 extending along the x direction. The second separation groove s2 and the first separation groove s1 are arranged so as not to overlap each other when viewed along the z direction.

[0049] The solar cell film includes, for example, a perovskite compound. The solar cell film is applied onto a lower transparent conductive film provided on the main surface 1a by a method such as spin coating or inkjet printing. The solar cell film is, for example, a laminated film including an n-type semiconductor film, an i-type semiconductor film (perovskite layer), and a p-type semiconductor film. First, the n-type semiconductor film is applied using an inkjet printing method and dried, and then the i-type semiconductor film that will become the upper layer is applied using an inkjet printing method and dried. Similarly, the p-type semiconductor film is applied using an inkjet printing method and dried to form a laminated film. The laminated film that will become the solar cell film may be formed by repeating the application and drying in this manner.

[0050] 6C , a plurality of (here, three) upper transparent electrodes UE are formed on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. Each upper transparent electrode UE is disposed on a corresponding one of the solar cell layers PV so as to be electrically connected to one of the transparent electrodes. The upper transparent electrodes UE can be formed, for example, by forming a third transparent conductive film so as to cover the solar cell layer PV and the second separation groove s2, and then patterning the third transparent conductive film.

[0051] In the example shown in Figure 6C, two adjacent upper transparent electrodes UE are separated from each other by a second separation groove s2. Each upper transparent electrode UE is electrically connected to the lower transparent electrode LE of the adjacent solar cell on the right side (+y side) within the second separation groove s2. The rightmost upper transparent electrode UE is electrically connected to the first electrode 12. In this way, a plurality of solar cell cells 31 to 33 connected in series are formed.

[0052] 6D , second electrodes 41 and 42 are formed on the side surfaces of the substrate 2. Each of the second electrodes 41 and 42 is formed so as to be electrically connected to a transparent electrode located at the edge (periphery) of the main surface a1. Here, the second electrode 41 is formed on the first side surface b1 of the substrate 2 so as to at least partially cover the second portion 11 b of the first electrode 11. Similarly, the second electrode 42 is formed on the third side surface b3 of the substrate 2 so as to at least partially cover the second portion 12 b of the first electrode 12.

[0053] In this embodiment, tab wires made of copper wires coated with solder are used as the second electrodes 41, 42. A wire made of a low-resistance metal wire containing Ag, Al, or the like and coated with solder may also be used. The second electrodes 41, 42 may be joined to the top surfaces of the first electrodes 11, 12 and the side surfaces of the substrate 2, respectively, by, for example, soldering. Alternatively, the metal wires that form the second electrodes 41, 42 may be formed on the side surfaces of the substrate 2 using conductive tape or a conductive adhesive.

[0054] The material and forming method of the second electrodes 41, 42 are not limited to those described above. The second electrodes 41, 42 may be formed using a conductive adhesive such as Ag paste, or conductive tape may be used as the second electrodes 41, 42. The second electrodes 41, 42 may also be formed using a combination of multiple methods. For example, part of the second electrodes may be a tab wire, and the other part may be an Ag layer formed from Ag paste.

[0055] Next, as shown in FIG. 6E , filler 5 is placed above power generation section 3 having solar cells 31-33, and upper substrate 7 is placed facing substrate 2 with power generation section 3 and filler 5 sandwiched between them. Filler 5 is, for example, a filler sheet containing polyolefin. Lamination is then performed. In lamination, filler 5 melts under reduced pressure and wraps around power generation section 3, bonding substrate 2 and upper substrate 7 together. Lamination makes it less likely that an air layer will remain around power generation section 3, thereby suppressing the effect of air on the solar cell layer.

[0056] Next, a sealing member (e.g., butyl rubber) 6 is placed between the substrate 2 and the upper substrate 7 so as to surround the power generation unit 3 and the filler 5 when viewed from the z direction. This forms a sealed space 60 between the substrate 2 and the upper substrate 7 in which the power generation unit 3 is located. In this manner, the power generation module 100 is manufactured.

[0057] 6E , the sealing member 6 is provided on the periphery of the main surface a1 along the first side e1 to the fourth side e4. The sealing member 6 may extend along the first side e1 on the first portion 11a of the first electrode 11, and may extend along the third side e3 on the first portion 12a of the first electrode 12. This allows the first electrodes 11 and 12 to pass between the substrate 2 and the sealing member 6 and be drawn out to the outside of the sealing member 6.

[0058] The manufacturing method of the power generation module of this embodiment is not limited to the above method and can be modified as appropriate. In the above, the sealing member 6 is disposed and sealed after lamination, but the lamination may be performed after the sealing member 6 is disposed and sealed. Also, the second electrodes 41, 42 may be formed after sealing with the sealing member 6.

[0059] Furthermore, the above describes a method for manufacturing a power generation module using the power generation module 100 as an example, but other power generation modules described below can also be manufactured using a similar method by appropriately changing the position, shape, etc. of the electrodes.

[0060] (Power generation module of reference example) For comparison with the power generation module of this embodiment, the configuration of a power generation module of reference example will be described. In the power generation module of the reference example, an external electrode (second electrode) is provided on the main surface of the substrate, similar to the power generation module disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0061] 25A and 25B are a schematic exploded perspective view and a top view, respectively, of a power generation module of a reference example.

[0062] In the power generation module 200 of the reference example, the first electrodes 11 and 12 and the second electrodes 41 and 42 are all provided only on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. On the main surface a1, the first electrode 11 extends along the first side e1, and the first electrode 12 extends along the third side e3. Within the sealed space, the second electrode 41 extends along the first side e1 on the first electrode 11, bends near the corner between the first side e1 and the second side e2, and further extends along the second side e2. Similarly, the second electrode 42 extends along the third side e3 on the first electrode 12, bends near the corner between the third side e3 and the second side e2, and further extends along the second side e2. The second electrodes 41 and 42 penetrate the sealing member 6 at approximately the center of the second side e2 to be drawn to the outside and connected to lead wires 43 and 44.

[0063] In the power generation module 200 of the reference example, the second electrodes 41, 42 are routed to desired positions on the principal surface a1 of the substrate 2. This increases the total area of ​​the second electrodes 41, 42 provided on the principal surface a1, which in turn increases the non-light-receiving region, thereby reducing the light-receiving area ratio. Furthermore, when viewed along the z direction, the second electrodes 41, 42 located on the principal surface a1 are easily visible, which reduces the design aesthetics.

[0064] In particular, in this reference example, bent portions (direction change portions) for changing the extension direction of the second electrodes 41, 42 are formed within the sealed space. This may significantly impair the appearance of the power generation module 200 when viewed from the z direction. Furthermore, a region R of the main surface a1 that includes the bent portions of the second electrodes 41, 42 becomes a non-light-receiving region, further reducing the light-receiving area ratio.

[0065] 1 to 5, in the power generating module 100 of this embodiment, the second electrodes 41, 42 are provided on the side surfaces of the substrate 2. Therefore, compared to the power generating module 200 of the reference example, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the light receiving area ratio caused by the second electrodes 41, 42. Furthermore, since the second electrodes 41, 42 provided on the side surfaces of the substrate 2 are difficult to see when viewed along the z direction, it is possible to improve the design compared to the power generating module 200 of the reference example.

[0066] 1 to 5, both of the pair of second electrodes 41, 42 are disposed on the side surfaces of the substrate 2, but for example, only one of the second electrodes may be provided on the side surface of the substrate. Even in this case, it is possible to improve the light-receiving area ratio and design.

[0067] (Effects) In this specification, the effects of the electrode structure and electrode arrangement of the power generation module can be obtained if at least one of the pair of first electrodes 11, 12 or at least one of the pair of second electrodes 41, 42 has a predetermined configuration and arrangement. For this reason, the effects may be explained using one of the first electrodes 11 or one of the second electrodes 41 as an example.

[0068] The power generating module 100 of this embodiment includes a power generating unit 3 disposed on the principal surface a1 of the substrate 2, first electrodes 11 and 12 electrically connected to the power generating unit 3 and having translucency, and second electrodes 41 and 42 electrically connected to the first electrode 11. The second electrodes 41 and 42 are electrodes (e.g., metal electrodes) having lower electrical resistivity than the first electrodes 11 and 12. At least a portion of the first electrodes 11 and 12 is disposed on the principal surface a1 of the substrate 2. At least a portion of the second electrodes 41 and 42 is disposed on the side surface of the substrate 2. This configuration can suppress a decrease in the light receiving area ratio due to the second electrodes 41 and 42. Therefore, by using the low-resistance second electrodes 41 and 42, it is possible to increase the light receiving area ratio while minimizing the resistance loss of the power generating module 100. Furthermore, with this configuration, by disposing at least a portion of the second electrodes 41 and 42 on the side surface, the design of the power generating module 100 can be improved when viewed along the z direction.

[0069] In the power generation module 100 of this embodiment, on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2, the first electrode 11 extends along the first edge e1, and at least a portion of the second electrode 41 is provided on the first side surface b1 that is continuous with the first edge e1, making it easy to electrically connect the first electrode 11 and the second electrode 41.

[0070] In the power generating module 100 of this embodiment, the second electrode 41 may extend along the first edge e1 on the first side surface b1. With this configuration, the low-resistance second electrode 41 can extend along the length of the solar cell while minimizing the impact on the appearance from the z direction, thereby reducing resistance loss when extracting power.

[0071] In the power generation module 100 of this embodiment, the first electrode 11 has a first portion 11a provided on the principal surface a1 of the substrate 2 and a second portion 11b provided on the first side surface b1. The second portion 11b of the first electrode 11 and the second electrode 41 are electrically connected on the first side surface b1. This configuration eliminates the need to form the second electrode 41 on the principal surface a1 of the substrate 2, further enhancing the design of the power generation module 100. Furthermore, this configuration ensures a sufficient connection area between the second electrode 41 and the first electrode 11 while minimizing the impact on the appearance from the z direction. This allows for more efficient extraction of power from the power generation unit 3. The second electrode 41 may extend in contact with the first electrode 11 over substantially the entire length along the first edge e1 of the first electrode 11.

[0072] In the power generation module 100 of this embodiment, the power generation unit 3 is disposed in a space (sealed space) 60 sealed from the outside by the sealing member 6, thereby preventing the solar cell layer PV of the power generation unit 3 from coming into contact with moisture, air, etc. In particular, when a perovskite compound is used in the solar cell layer of the power generation unit 3, a more significant effect can be obtained because the reaction between the perovskite compound and water (water vapor) can be prevented.

[0073] In the power generating module 100 of this embodiment, the first electrodes 11, 12 extend from the sealed space 60 across the sealing member 6 to the outside of the sealing member 6 when viewed from the z direction. With this configuration, the first electrodes 11, 12 and the second electrodes 41, 42 can be electrically connected to each other outside the sealing member 6. Since it is not necessary to dispose the second electrodes 41, 42 inside the sealing member 6, it is possible to further improve the design while suppressing a decrease in the light-receiving area ratio.

[0074] In the power generation module 100 of this embodiment, the first electrodes 11, 12 pass between the sealing member 6 and the substrate 2 and extend to the outside of the sealing member 6. With this configuration, it is not necessary to form through holes in the sealing member 6 for passing the second electrodes 41, 42 therethrough, and therefore the sealing space 60 can be more tightly sealed.

[0075] (Modification 1) The power generation module of Modification 1 differs from the power generation module 100 shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 in that the second electrode is also provided on the second side surface of the substrate.

[0076] FIG. 8 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing a power generation module of Modification 1. As shown in FIG. 8 , in the power generation module 101 of Modification 1, the second electrode 41 has a third portion 41b located on the first side surface b1 of the substrate 2 and a fourth portion 41c located on the second side surface b2 of the substrate 2. The third portion 41b and the fourth portion 41c are electrically connected. The third portion 41b is formed, for example, to be connected to the fourth portion 41c. The second electrode 41 may be bent from the first side surface b1 of the substrate 2 along the corner between the first side surface b1 and the second side surface b2 and extend over the second side surface b2. Similarly, the second electrode 42 has a third portion 42b located on the third side surface b3 of the substrate 2 and a fourth portion 42c located on the second side surface b2 of the substrate 2. The third portion 42b and the fourth portion 42c are electrically connected. The third portion 42b is formed, for example, to be connected to the fourth portion 42c. The second electrode 42 may bend from the third side surface b3 of the substrate 2 along the corner between the third side surface b3 and the second side surface b2, and extend on the second side surface b2. On the second side surface b2, the fourth portions 41 c and 42 c are arranged at a distance from each other in the y direction.

[0077] In the power generating module 101 of Modification 1, the second electrode 41 extends from the first side surface b1 of the substrate 2 to the second side surface b2 adjacent to the first side surface b1. This allows the second electrode 41 to be routed to the second edge e2 without significantly degrading the design when viewed from the z direction.

[0078] Furthermore, in the power generating module 101 of the first modification, the fourth portions 41c, 42c of the second electrodes 41, 42 located on the second side surface b2 are used, making it easier to extract power to the outside of the power generating module 101.

[0079] 9 and 10 are schematic exploded perspective views showing another power generation module of Modification 1. In Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the sealing member and the upper substrate are omitted from the illustration.

[0080] 9 , two fourth portions 41c, 42c provided on the second side surface b2 of the substrate 2 are electrically connected to lead wires 43, 44, respectively. The lead wires 43, 44 may be the same tab wires as those used for the second electrodes 41, 42. The lead wires 43, 44 may be connected to, for example, a controller that controls power generation and distributes the generated power.

[0081] 10 further includes a terminal box 45. The lead wires 43, 44 are connected to terminals provided on the terminal box 45. The terminal box 45 is disposed, for example, near the second side surface b2 of the substrate 2. The terminal box 45 may be disposed so as to at least partially overlap the second side surface b2 of the substrate 2 when viewed along the x direction.

[0082] The height of the terminal box 45 in the z direction may be approximately the same as or less than the thickness of the substrate 2. In this case, the terminal box 45 may be arranged so that the lower and upper surfaces of the terminal box 45 are located between the back surface a2 and the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 in the z direction. Alternatively, the height of the terminal box 45 in the z direction may be less than the total thickness of the substrate 2 and the upper substrate 7. In this case, the terminal box 45 may be arranged so that the lower and upper surfaces of the terminal box 45 are located between the back surface a2 of the substrate 2 and the upper surface of the upper substrate 7 in the z direction.

[0083] Fig. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing yet another power generation module of Modification 1. The power generation module 104 shown in Fig. 11 differs from the power generation modules 101 to 103 shown in Figs. 8 to 10 in that the sealing member 6 covers not only the space between the substrate 2 and the upper substrate 7, but also the first side surface b1 and third side surface b3 of the substrate 2 and the third portions 41b and 42b of the second electrodes 41 and 42 provided on these side surfaces b1 and b3. The sealing member 6 may also extend over the side surface of the upper substrate 7 and cover the side surface of the upper substrate 7.

[0084] In the power generation module 104, at least a portion of the fourth portions 41c, 42c (see Figures 8 to 10) provided on the second side b2 of the substrate 2 is exposed from the sealing member 6 and can be used for electrical connection between the power generation module 104 and the outside.

[0085] According to the power generation module 104, the fourth portions 41c, 42c of the second electrodes 41, 42 can be used to ensure electrical connection between the power generation module 104 and the outside while more reliably preventing moisture and air from entering the sealed space 60 from the outside.

[0086] (Modification 2) The power generation module of Modification 2 differs from the power generation module 100 shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 in that the second electrode is also provided on the main surface of the substrate.

[0087] 12 and 13 are a schematic exploded perspective view and a top view, respectively, of the power generation module of the second modification.

[0088] 12 and 13 , in a power generation module 105 of Modification 2, the first electrodes 11 and 12 are each disposed only on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. In this example, on the main surface a1, the first electrode 11 is provided in a region near the first side surface b1 and along the first edge e1. The second electrode 12 is provided in a region near the third side surface b3 and along the third edge e3. In the example shown in FIG. 13 , the entire first electrodes 11 and 12 are disposed within a sealed space 60 surrounded by the sealing member 6 when viewed in the z direction.

[0089] The second electrode 41 is an L-shaped electrode that bends downward from on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 along the corner between the main surface a1 and the first side surface b1 and extends onto the first side surface b1. The second electrode 41 has a fifth portion 41a provided on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 and a third portion 41b provided on the first side surface b1. The fifth portion 41a is electrically connected to the first electrode 11 on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. The fifth portion 41a may extend on the first electrode 11 along the first edge e1.

[0090] Similarly, the second electrode 42 is an L-shaped electrode that bends downward from on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 along the corner between the main surface a1 and the third side surface b3, and extends onto the third side surface b3. The second electrode 42 has a fifth portion 42a provided on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 and a third portion 42b provided on the third side surface b3. The fifth portion 42a is electrically connected to the first electrode 12 on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. The fifth portion 42a may extend on the first electrode 12 along the third edge e3.

[0091] 13 , the second electrodes 41 and 42 are electrically connected to the first electrodes 11 and 12, respectively, within the sealed space 60. Each of the second electrodes 41 and 42 extends from the sealed space 60 across the sealing member 6 to the outside of the sealing member 6. Each of the second electrodes 41 and 42 may extend from the sealed space 60 to the outside of the sealing member 6, passing between the sealing member 6 and the substrate 2, or may extend through the sealing member 6 to the outside of the sealing member 6.

[0092] In the power generation module 105 of Modification 2, the first electrodes 11 and 12 are disposed only on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2, and therefore, it is possible to easily form the first electrodes 11 and 12. For example, the first electrodes 11 and 12 may be formed using the same transparent conductive film as the lower transparent electrodes of the solar cell 31 to 33.

[0093] In the power generating module 105 of the second modification, the low-resistance second electrodes 41, 42 extend from the main surface a1 to the side surfaces of the substrate 2. This reduces the electrical resistance when extracting power from the power generating unit 3 compared to when the first electrodes 11, 12 extend from the main surface a1 to the side surfaces of the substrate.

[0094] (Modification 3) The power generation module of Modification 3 differs from the power generation module 100 shown in Figs. 1 to 5 in that the power generation section includes a plurality of solar cell element strings.

[0095] Fig. 14 is a schematic top view of a power generation module of Modification 3. As shown in Fig. 14 , a power generation module 106 of Modification 3 includes a substrate 2, a power generation unit 3, multiple pairs of first electrodes 11, 12, and a pair of second electrodes 41, 42.

[0096] The power generation unit 3 is provided on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 and has a plurality of strings 30 extending generally in the y direction. Each of the plurality of strings 30 is a solar cell element string in which a plurality of solar cells are connected in series. Each string 30 is electrically connected to a first electrode 11 located at one end of the string 30 in the y direction and a first electrode 12 located at the other end. The second electrode 41 is electrically connected to the first electrodes 11 of the plurality of strings 30, and the second electrode 42 is electrically connected to the first electrodes 12 of the plurality of strings 30. In this way, the plurality of strings 30 can be connected in parallel by the second electrodes 41, 42.

[0097] 14 , the first electrodes 11 of each string 30 extend from the main surface a1 to the first side surface b1 of the substrate 2. A second electrode 41 is provided on the first side surface b1 to cover the multiple first electrodes 11. Similarly, the first electrodes 12 of each string 30 extend from the main surface a1 to the third side surface b3 of the substrate 2. A second electrode 42 is provided on the third side surface b3 to cover the multiple first electrodes 12. As described with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13 , the first electrodes may be formed only on the main surface of the substrate, and the second electrodes may extend from the main surface of the substrate to the side surfaces.

[0098] Second Embodiment A power generation module according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the first embodiment in that at least a portion of the second electrode is provided on the second side surface of the substrate, and not on the first or third side surfaces. The following description will mainly focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and will omit redundant description where appropriate.

[0099] The basic configuration of a power generation module according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 19. FIG. 15 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the power generation module according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 16 is a schematic top view of the power generation module of FIG. 15 excluding the upper substrate. FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line XIX-XIX shown in FIG. 16.

[0100] 15 to 19 , in the power generation module 107, the first electrodes 11, 12 are disposed on the main surface 1a of the substrate 2. On the main surface 1a of the substrate 2, the first electrode 11 extends along the first edge e1 in an area near the first side surface b1. The first electrode 12 extends along the third edge e3 in an area near the third side surface b3. The entire first electrodes 11, 12 may be disposed within the sealed space 60.

[0101] The second electrode 41 has a fifth portion 41a provided on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 and a fourth portion 41c provided on the second side surface b2. The fifth portion 41a and the fourth portion 41c are electrically connected. The second electrode 42 has a fifth portion 42a provided on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 and a fourth portion 42c provided on the second side surface b2. The fifth portion 42a and the fourth portion 42c are electrically connected. On the second side surface b2, the fourth portions 41c and 42c are arranged at a distance from each other in the y direction. The fifth portions 41a and 42a and the fourth portions 41c and 42c of each second electrode 41 and 42 may be formed separately or integrally.

[0102] 16 , the fifth portion 41 a of the second electrode 41 extends along the first side e1 (here, in the x-direction) on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 to the second side e2 and is connected to the fourth portion 41 c. Similarly, the fifth portion 42 a of the second electrode 42 extends along the third side e3 (here, in the x-direction) on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 to the second side e2 and is connected to the fourth portion 42 c. Meanwhile, the fourth portions 41 c and 42 c of the second electrodes 41 and 42 extend toward each other along the second side surface b2 (here, in the y-direction) along the second side e2.

[0103] 18 , the fifth portion 41 a of the second electrode 41 may extend from within the sealed space 60, through the sealing member 6, and to the outside of the sealing member 6 along the first side e1. Similarly, the fifth portion 42 a of the second electrode 42 may extend along the third side e3, through the sealing member 6. In this case, the portions of the second electrodes 41 and 42 located inside the through holes of the sealing member 6 may be embedded in the sealing member 6 and directly contact the inner surfaces of the through holes of the sealing member 6. Note that the second electrodes 41 and 42 may extend between the sealing member 6 and the substrate 2 to the outside of the sealing member 6 without penetrating the sealing member 6.

[0104] (Method for manufacturing the power generation module 107) A method for manufacturing the power generation module 107 will be described with reference to Figures 20A to 20E. Figures 20A to 20E are schematic cross-sectional views showing the steps in the method for manufacturing the power generation module. Below, differences from the method described with reference to Figures 6A to 6E will be mainly described.

[0105] First, as shown in Fig. 20A, a plurality of (three in this example) lower transparent electrodes LE, first electrodes 11, and first electrodes 12 are formed on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. Next, as shown in Fig. 20B, a solar cell layer PV is formed on each lower transparent electrode LE. After this, as shown in Fig. 20C, an upper transparent electrode UE is formed on each solar cell layer PV. In this manner, solar cell cells 31 to 33 connected in series to each other are formed.

[0106] 20D , fifth portions 41a and 42a of the second electrodes 41 and 42 are formed on the first electrodes 11 and 12, respectively, on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2. The first electrodes 11 and 12 may be joined to the fifth portions 41a and 42a using, for example, solder. Furthermore, although not shown, fourth portions 41c and 42c of the second electrodes 41 and 42 are formed on the second side surface b2 of the substrate 2 (see, for example, FIGS. 15 and 16 ). After this, the fifth portions 41a and 42a of the second electrodes 41 and 42 are joined to the fourth portions 41c and 42c using, for example, solder.

[0107] 20E , the upper substrate 7 is placed facing the substrate 2 with the power generation unit 3 and filler 5 sandwiched therebetween, and lamination is performed. After this, an uncured sealing member 6 is placed between the substrate 2 and the upper substrate 7, on the outside of the power generation unit 3, filler 5, and first electrodes 11 and 12. Of the fifth portions 41 a and 42 a of the second electrodes 41 and 42, the portions that cross the sealing member 6 when viewed along the z direction are filled with the uncured sealing member 6. After this, the sealing member 6 is cured. In this manner, the power generation module 107 is manufactured.

[0108] (Effects) According to the power generating module 107 of this embodiment, at least a portion of the second electrodes 41, 42 is disposed on the second side surface b2 of the substrate 2, which can suppress a decrease in the light receiving area ratio and a decrease in the design due to the second electrodes 41. Furthermore, by disposing the second electrodes 41, 42 on the second side surface b2, it is easy to extract the power generated in the power generating unit 3 to the outside.

[0109] In the power generating module 107 of this embodiment, the first electrodes 11 and 12 are formed only on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2, so that the first electrodes 11 and 12 can be easily formed.

[0110] In the power generation module 107 of this embodiment, the fifth portion 41a of the second electrode 41 extends along the first edge e1 on the main surface a1 of the substrate 2 and is connected to the fourth portion 41c. This configuration allows the second electrode 41 to be drawn out from the second edge e2 of the substrate 2 without significantly impairing the appearance. For example, when viewed along the z direction, the direction change portion for changing the extension direction of the second electrode 41 (e.g., from the x direction to the y direction) is difficult to see. Therefore, a better appearance can be achieved compared to when the direction change portion is formed on the main surface of the substrate (see the reference example shown in FIG. 25B ).

[0111] In the power generation module 107 of this embodiment, the second electrode 41 extends along the first side e1 from inside the sealed space 60 to outside the sealing member 6. The direction change portion of the second electrode 41 is formed outside the sealed space 60. With this configuration, the design of the power generation module 107 can be further improved.

[0112] 21 and 22 are schematic perspective views showing a power generation module of Modification 4. In a power generation module 108 shown in Fig. 21 , fourth portions 41c and 42c of second electrodes 41 and 42 are electrically connected to lead wires 43 and 44, respectively. In a power generation module 109 shown in Fig. 22 , the lead wires 43 and 44 are connected to a terminal box 45 disposed close to the second side surface b2 of the substrate 2.

[0113] (Other Modifications) The configuration of the power generation module of the present disclosure is not limited to the configurations of the power generation modules 100 to 109 described above with reference to FIGS.

[0114] The power generation modules 100 to 109 of the above embodiments are single-sided photovoltaic power generation modules configured to allow light to enter the power generation unit 3 from the back surface a2 side (-z side) of the substrate 2, but may also be double-sided photovoltaic power generation modules.

[0115] The positions, electrode shapes, extension directions, etc. of the second electrodes 41, 42 are not limited to the examples shown in Figures 1 to 22. It is sufficient that at least a portion of the second electrodes 41, 42 is provided on the side surfaces of the substrate 2. Furthermore, the pair of second electrodes 41, 42 may be arranged asymmetrically. For example, one of the pair of second electrodes may be provided on the first side surface and the second side surface of the substrate (see Figure 8), and the other may be provided on the main surface and the second side surface of the substrate (see Figure 15).

[0116] 1 to 22, the second electrodes 41, 42 are formed above the first electrodes 11, 12, but they may be formed below the first electrodes 11, 12 (between the first electrodes 11, 12 and the substrate 2). A power generation module configured in this manner can be manufactured, for example, by forming the second electrodes 41, 42 on the substrate 2 and then forming the first electrodes 11, 12 and the power generation unit 3.

[0117] 1 to 22, the planar shape of the substrate 2 is rectangular, but it may be other polygonal, circular, elliptical, or the like, or may be a polygon (e.g., a rectangle) with some sides deformed into an arc. The side surface of the substrate is not limited to being flat, and may be partially or entirely curved. For example, at least a portion of the second electrode may be provided on the curved portion of the side surface of the substrate.

[0118] The power generation unit 3 is required to have at least one solar cell, and may have only a single solar cell. A plurality of solar cells may be arranged in an array in the power generation unit 3. The structure, planar shape, etc. of each solar cell are not limited to the example shown in the figure.

[0119] The sealing member 6 may also be formed on the side surface of the substrate 2. In Figures 1 to 22, at least a portion of the second electrodes 41, 42 is located outside the sealing member 6, but the second electrodes 41, 42 may be entirely covered with the sealing member 6, and the lead wires 43, 44 connected to the second electrodes 41, 42 may be located outside the sealing member 6.

[0120] 1 to 22, the substrate 2 and the upper substrate 7 are opposed to each other with the power generating section 3 interposed therebetween, but the upper substrate need not be provided. Furthermore, depending on the material of the solar cell layer, a sealing member for sealing the power generating section may not be provided.

[0121] Third Embodiment A power generating device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of power generating modules, which may be any of the power generating modules 101 to 109 described above.

[0122] Fig. 23 is a schematic top view of the power generating device according to the third embodiment, and Fig. 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line XXIV-XXIV in Fig. 23.

[0123] 23 and 24, the power generation device 1 of this embodiment includes two power generation modules 100A and 100B connected in series and a pair of lead wires 43 and 44. Here, an example will be described in which the power generation module 100 shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 is used as the power generation modules 100A and 100B.

[0124] The power generation modules 100A and 100B are arranged side by side such that the third side surface b3 of the power generation module 100A and the first side surface b1 of the power generation module 100B face each other when viewed in the z direction. The second electrode 42 provided on the third side surface b3 of the power generation module 100A and the second electrode 41 provided on the first side surface b1 of the power generation module 100B are electrically connected by being in contact with each other or by being joined using solder, a conductive adhesive, or the like. This allows the power generation modules 100A and 100B to be connected in series.

[0125] In this embodiment, a connection portion (hereinafter referred to as a "module connection portion") CP for electrically connecting two power generation modules is formed between the light receiving surfaces (substrate main surfaces) of the power generation modules 100A and 100B when viewed from the z direction. As shown in Fig. 23, the module connection portion CP may be formed along the x direction, for example, between two adjacent power generation modules.

[0126] The lead wire 43 is electrically connected to the second electrode 41 located on the opposite side of the power generation module 100A from the power generation module 100B. The lead wire 44 is electrically connected to the second electrode 42 located on the opposite side of the power generation module 100B from the power generation module 100A.

[0127] (Effects) The power generation device 1 of this embodiment includes a plurality of power generation modules, and therefore the voltage, current, and power generation amount of the power generation modules can be adjusted according to the application.

[0128] In the power generation device 1 of this embodiment, the portion of the second electrode 42 of the power generation module 100A located on the side surface of the substrate and the portion of the second electrode 41 of the power generation module 100B located on the side surface of the substrate are juxtaposed so as to face each other and are electrically connected to each other. With this configuration, the module connection portion CP connecting the power generation modules 100A and 100B is not formed on the light-receiving surface (the main surface of the substrate), thereby preventing a decrease in the light-receiving area ratio due to the module connection portion CP. Furthermore, because the module connection portion CP is difficult to see from the z direction, a decrease in the design due to the module connection portion CP is prevented. Furthermore, by connecting the modules on the side surface of the substrate, a sufficient connection area can be secured without affecting the appearance, and connection resistance can be further reduced.

[0129] 23 and 24 , the second electrodes 41 and 42 of each power generation module 100A and 100B are provided on the first side surface b1 and the third side surface b3 of the substrate, respectively, but the positions of the second electrodes are not limited to the illustrated examples. The second electrodes of each power generation module may include a portion located on a side surface of the substrate (including all four side surfaces in the case of a rectangular parallelepiped substrate), and a portion of the second electrode may be provided on the main surface of the substrate (see FIG. 12 ). Furthermore, for example, one of the pair of second electrodes of power generation module 100A (here, second electrode 42) may be provided on a side surface of the substrate and connected to power generation module 100B, and the other (here, second electrode 41) may be provided on the main surface of the substrate.

[0130] 23 and 24 , two power generation modules 100A, 100B are connected in series to form one module row, but three or more power generation modules may be connected in series. Also, multiple power generation modules may be connected in parallel. Furthermore, the power generation module may include multiple module rows connected in series, and these module rows may be connected in parallel.

[0131] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and design modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, by appropriately combining the configurations of any of the various exemplary embodiments (including modified examples), the effects of each embodiment can be achieved.

[0132] <Overview of Embodiments> <1> A power generation module according to the present disclosure includes a translucent substrate; a power generation unit disposed on a main surface of the substrate and including a solar cell layer; a first translucent electrode electrically connected to the power generation unit; and a second electrode electrically connected to the first electrode and having a lower electrical resistivity than the first electrode, wherein the substrate further has a back surface located opposite the main surface in the thickness direction and a side surface connecting the main surface and the back surface, wherein at least a portion of the first electrode is provided on the main surface, and at least a portion of the second electrode is provided on the side surface. <2> The power generation module according to <1>, wherein the main surface has a first side, and the side surface includes a first side surface continuous with the first side, wherein the first electrode extends along the first side on the main surface, and at least a portion of the second electrode is provided on the first side surface. <3> The power generation module according to <2>, wherein at least a portion of the second electrode extends along the first side on the first side surface. <4> The power generation module described in <2> or <3>, wherein the first electrode has a first portion provided on the main surface and a second portion provided on the first side surface, and the second portion of the first electrode and the second electrode are electrically connected at the first side surface. <5> The power generation module described in <4>, further comprising a sealing member disposed on the main surface, wherein the power generation unit is disposed in a space sealed from the outside by the sealing member, and the first electrode extends from the space to the outside of the sealing member, and at least a portion of the second portion of the first electrode is located outside the sealing member. The first electrode may extend from the space to the outside of the sealing member through a gap between the sealing member and the substrate. <6> The power generation module described in any one of <2> to <5>, wherein the side surface includes a second side surface adjacent to the first side surface, and the second electrode has a third portion provided on the first side surface and a fourth portion provided on the second side surface.<7> The power generation module described in any one of <2> to <6>, wherein the second electrode has a third portion provided on the first side surface and a fifth portion provided on the main surface, and the fifth portion of the second electrode and the first electrode are electrically connected on the main surface. <8> The power generation module described in <7>, further comprising a sealing member disposed on the main surface, wherein the power generation unit is disposed in a space sealed from the outside by the sealing member, and the second electrode extends from the space to the outside of the sealing member, and at least a part of the third portion of the second electrode is located outside the sealing member. <9> The power generation module described in <8>, wherein the second electrode extends from the space to the outside of the sealing member, passing between the sealing member and the substrate. <10> The power generation module described in <1>, wherein the main surface has a first side and a second side adjacent to the first side, the side surface includes a first side surface continuous with the first side and a second side surface continuous with the second side, the first electrode extends along the first side on the main surface, and at least a portion of the second electrode is provided on the second side surface. <11> The power generation module described in <10>, wherein the second electrode has a fourth portion provided on the second side surface and a fifth portion provided on the main surface, and the fifth portion of the second electrode and the first electrode are electrically connected on the main surface. <12> The power generation module described in <11>, further comprising a sealing member disposed on the main surface, the power generation unit is disposed in a space sealed from the outside by the sealing member, the second electrode extends from the space to the outside of the sealing member, and at least a portion of the fourth portion of the second electrode is located outside the sealing member. <13> The power generation module according to <12>, wherein the fifth portion of the second electrode extends along the first side from the space through the sealing member to the outside of the sealing member. <14> The power generation module according to any one of <6> and <11> to <13>, further comprising a terminal box, wherein the fourth portion of the second electrode is electrically connected to a terminal in the terminal box via a lead wire.<15> The power generation module described in <14>, wherein the terminal box is arranged near the second side surface. <16> The power generation module described in <14> or <15>, wherein the height of the terminal box along the thickness direction is equal to or less than the thickness of the substrate. <17> The power generation module described in any one of <1> to <16>, wherein the main surface has a first side and a third side facing each other in a first direction, the first electrode includes an electrode provided along the first side and an electrode provided along the third side, the power generation unit includes a plurality of solar cell cells connected in series, the plurality of solar cell cells are arranged in the first direction, and among the plurality of solar cell cells, the solar cell closest to the first side is electrically connected to the electrode provided along the first side, and the solar cell closest to the third side is electrically connected to the electrode provided along the third side. <18> The power generation module described in any one of <1> to <17>, wherein the solar cell layer includes a perovskite compound. <19> The power generation module according to any one of <1> to <18>, wherein the substrate is a glass substrate or a resin substrate. <20> A power generation device according to the present disclosure includes a plurality of power generation modules including a first power generation module and a second power generation module, wherein each of the first power generation module and the second power generation module is the power generation module according to any one of <1> to <19>, and wherein a portion of the second electrode provided on the side surface of the first power generation module and a portion of the second electrode provided on the side surface of the second power generation module are arranged to face each other and are electrically connected to each other.<21> A method for manufacturing a power generation module according to the present disclosure includes: preparing a translucent substrate having a main surface, a back surface opposite the main surface in a thickness direction, and a side surface connecting the main surface and the back surface, wherein a plurality of transparent electrodes are arranged at a distance from each other on the main surface; forming a plurality of solar cell layers on the substrate, each of the plurality of solar cell layers being arranged so as to straddle two adjacent transparent electrodes of the plurality of transparent electrodes; forming an upper electrode on each of the plurality of solar cell layers and electrically connecting to one of the plurality of transparent electrodes; and forming a second electrode having a lower electrical resistivity than the plurality of transparent electrodes on the side surface of the substrate so as to electrically connect to a transparent electrode of the plurality of transparent electrodes located at an end of the main surface. <22> The method for manufacturing a power generation module according to <21>, wherein the side surface includes a first side surface and a second side surface adjacent to the first side surface; and forming the second electrode on the first side surface and the second side surface so that a portion located on the first side surface and a portion located on the second side surface are connected to each other. <23> In the method for manufacturing a power generation module according to <21> or <22>, the side surface includes a first side surface and a third side surface opposite to the first side surface, and the second electrode is formed on the first side surface and the third side surface.

[0133] The power generation module according to the present disclosure can have a high light-receiving area ratio and / or excellent design, and is therefore useful as a photovoltaic power generation module.

[0134] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Power generation device 2 Substrate 3 Power generation section 5 Filler 6 Sealing member 7 Upper substrate 11, 12 First electrode 11a, 12a First portion 11b, 12b Second portion 30 String 31 to 33 Solar cell 41, 42 Second electrode 41b, 42b Third portion 41c, 42c Fourth portion 41a, 42a Fifth portion 43, 44 Lead wire 45 Terminal box 60 Sealed space 100 to 109, 100A, 100B Power generation module a1 Main surface a2 Back surface b1 First side b2 Second side b3 Third side b4 Fourth side CP Module connection portion e1 First edge e2 Second edge e3 Third edge e4 Fourth edge LE Lower transparent electrode PV Solar cell layer UE Upper transparent electrode s1 First separation groove s2 Second separation groove

Claims

1. A power generation module comprising: a light-transmitting substrate; a power generation unit disposed on a main surface of the substrate and including a solar cell layer; a light-transmitting first electrode electrically connected to the power generation unit; and a second electrode electrically connected to the first electrode and having a lower electrical resistivity than the first electrode, wherein the substrate further has a back surface located opposite the main surface in the thickness direction, and a side surface connecting the main surface and the back surface, at least a portion of the first electrode being provided on the main surface, and at least a portion of the second electrode being provided on the side surface.

2. The power generation module described in claim 1, wherein the main surface has a first side, the side surface includes a first side surface continuous with the first side, the first electrode extends along the first side on the main surface, and at least a portion of the second electrode is provided on the first side surface.

3. The power generation module according to claim 2, wherein at least a portion of the second electrode on the first side surface extends along the first edge.

4. A power generation module as described in claim 2 or 3, wherein the first electrode has a first portion provided on the main surface and a second portion provided on the first side surface, and the second portion of the first electrode and the second electrode are electrically connected on the first side surface.

5. The power generation module described in claim 4, further comprising a sealing member disposed on the main surface, the power generation unit being disposed within a space sealed from the outside by the sealing member, the first electrode extending from the space to the outside of the sealing member, and at least a portion of the second portion of the first electrode being located outside the sealing member.

6. The power generation module according to claim 2, wherein the side surface includes a second side surface adjacent to the first side surface, and the second electrode has a third portion provided on the first side surface and a fourth portion provided on the second side surface.

7. A power generation module as described in claim 2 or 3, wherein the second electrode has a third portion provided on the first side surface and a fifth portion provided on the main surface, and the fifth portion of the second electrode and the first electrode are electrically connected on the main surface.

8. The power generation module described in claim 7, further comprising a sealing member disposed on the main surface, the power generation unit being disposed within a space sealed from the outside by the sealing member, the second electrode extending from the space to the outside of the sealing member, and at least a portion of the third portion of the second electrode being located outside the sealing member.

9. The power generating module according to claim 8, wherein the second electrode extends from the space to the outside of the sealing member, passing between the sealing member and the substrate.

10. A power generation module as described in claim 1, wherein the main surface has a first side and a second side adjacent to the first side, the side surface includes a first side surface continuous with the first side and a second side surface continuous with the second side, the first electrode on the main surface extends along the first side, and at least a portion of the second electrode is provided on the second side surface.

11. The power generation module described in claim 10, wherein the second electrode has a fourth portion provided on the second side surface and a fifth portion provided on the main surface, and the fifth portion of the second electrode and the first electrode are electrically connected on the main surface.

12. The power generation module described in claim 11, further comprising a sealing member disposed on the main surface, the power generation unit being disposed within a space sealed from the outside by the sealing member, the second electrode extending from the space to the outside of the sealing member, and at least a part of the fourth portion of the second electrode being located outside the sealing member.

13. The power generation module according to claim 12, wherein the fifth portion of the second electrode extends from the space through the sealing member to the outside of the sealing member along the first side.

14. A power generation module as described in any one of claims 6 and 11 to 13, further comprising a terminal box, wherein the fourth portion of the second electrode is electrically connected to a terminal in the terminal box via a lead wire.

15. The power generation module according to claim 14, wherein the terminal box is disposed near the second side surface.

16. The power generation module according to claim 14, wherein the height of the terminal box along the thickness direction is equal to or less than the thickness of the substrate.

17. A power generation module as described in any one of claims 1 to 3 and 10 to 13, wherein the main surface has a first side and a third side facing each other in a first direction, the first electrode includes an electrode provided along the first side and an electrode provided along the third side, the power generation unit comprises a plurality of solar cell cells connected in series, the plurality of solar cell cells are arranged in the first direction, and among the plurality of solar cell cells, the solar cell closest to the first side is electrically connected to the electrode provided along the first side, and the solar cell closest to the third side is electrically connected to the electrode provided along the third side.

18. The power generation module according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 10 to 13, wherein the solar cell layer contains a perovskite compound.

19. The power generating module according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 10 to 13, wherein the substrate is a glass substrate or a resin substrate.

20. A power generation module comprising: a translucent substrate; a power generation unit disposed on a main surface of the substrate and including a solar cell layer; a first electrode electrically connected to the power generation unit and having translucency; and a second electrode electrically connected to the first electrode, wherein the substrate further has a back surface located opposite the main surface in the thickness direction, and a side surface connecting the main surface and the back surface, at least a portion of the first electrode being provided on the main surface, and at least a portion of the second electrode being provided on the side surface.

21. A power generation device comprising a plurality of power generation modules including a first power generation module and a second power generation module, each of the first power generation module and the second power generation module being a power generation module as defined in any one of claims 1 to 3 and 10 to 13, wherein a portion of the second electrode of the first power generation module provided on the side surface and a portion of the second electrode of the second power generation module provided on the side surface are arranged to face each other and are electrically connected to each other.

22. A method for manufacturing a power generating module, comprising: preparing a translucent substrate having a main surface, a back surface located opposite the main surface in the thickness direction, and a side surface connecting the main surface and the back surface, wherein a plurality of transparent electrodes are arranged at a distance from each other on the main surface; forming a plurality of solar cell layers on the substrate, each of the plurality of solar cell layers being arranged so as to straddle two adjacent transparent electrodes of the plurality of transparent electrodes; forming an upper electrode on each of the plurality of solar cell layers that is electrically connected to one of the plurality of transparent electrodes; and forming a second electrode having a lower electrical resistivity than the plurality of transparent electrodes on the side surface of the substrate so as to be electrically connected to a transparent electrode of the plurality of transparent electrodes that is located at the end of the main surface.

23. A method for manufacturing a power generation module as described in claim 22, wherein the side surface includes a first side surface and a second side surface adjacent to the first side surface, and the second electrode is formed on the first side surface and the second side surface so that a portion located on the first side surface and a portion located on the second side surface are connected to each other.

24. A method for manufacturing a power generation module as described in claim 22 or 23, wherein the side surfaces include a first side surface and a third side surface opposite the first side surface, and the second electrode is formed on the first side surface and the third side surface.

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