Input energy analysis of flexible solar cells on textile

Abstract

An energy assessment was made for a novel solar cell consisting of thin film silicon on woven polyester. The total energy used in manufacture by this unique combination of textile and semiconductor processes was estimated to be 446 MJ/m2, lower compared with using more conventional substrates such as glass and polymer film. The authors' substrate choice of woven polyester (53 MJ/m2) shows a cut in energy use compared with glass, which requires 150- 200 MJ/m2. Comparison with the energy generated by the device in a typical mid-European operating ambient showed it to have an energy payback time of 1-2 years for an energy conversion efficiency range of 10-5%.