Conclusion
In conclusion, the adoption of the proposed alternative metallization
technique, employing a screen printed bi-layer configuration with either
Ag/Ni or Ag/Cu, presents significant advantages in terms of
cost-effectiveness. These configurations, while maintaining a similar
level of performance as traditional Ag contacts, substantially reduce
the silver consumption and hence the overall metallization cost per
wafer. Importantly, these cost savings are reflected in the Levelized
Cost of Electricity (LCOE), showcasing the potential of this alternative
technique to bring about notable cost efficiencies in the solar power
industry. Although the efficiency loss due to higher series resistance
and the slight increase in thermal budget for contact firing of bi-layer
contacts are to be taken into account, the reduction in metal costs
substantially outweighs these factors, resulting in a lower LCOE. This
innovative approach, combining enhanced performance with economic
viability, has the potential to significantly advance the manufacturing
process of solar cells and bolster the broader transition towards more
sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.