[ Photovoltaics ]

Photovoltaics (PV) exploits the sun’s virtually unlimited energy and converts it into electricity using solar cells containing silicon. It is one of the rapidly growing technologies with huge potential.

R&D: the key to efficiency in photovoltaics

The market for renewables is an eco-friendly, sustainable alternative to traditional sources of energy where photovoltaic technology is also playing an increasingly important role. Current challenges that CTR researchers are also tackling to ensure efficient use of photovoltaic cells and modules include:

• Increasing efficiency to improve energy output 
• Integrating smart modules
• Improving stability under mechanical loads 
• Increasing service life 
• Reducing costs

Potential of a renewable energy source

Photovoltaic technology is suitable for a wide range of applications and solar panels can be built to meet specific requirements. Given that sunlight is practically unlimited, PV systems do not depend on the power industry and operate for many years without producing any emissions.

CTR expertise

CTR develops PV modules, tests them and manages projects together with manufacturers in an attempt to improve the technology’s efficiency along the entire value chain. In-depth investigations using state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and an outdoor test facility for measurements under real environmental conditions enable us to analyse weaknesses and develop troubleshooting concepts.