Low-Cost Thin-Film CIS Photovoltaic Technology for DOD Applications

This SBIR project proposes a new flexible lightweight, high-specific power, photovoltaic technology to address the DOD electric power generation need for terrestrial, near space, and space platforms. It seeks to raise the efficiency and lower the cost of flexible modules with a new solar cell configuration, based on a high performing n-copper-indium-selenide (n-CIS) thin film. It seeks to simplify high-volume manufacturing with continuous roll-to-roll electrodeposition. Phase I aims to identify the cell components and processing steps to produce solar cells with electrodeposited n-CIS films. Phase I will adapt the electrodeposition approach to flexible substrates, deposit compatible buffer and window layers, fabricate and characterize CIS solar cells. The results will provide a strong foundation for Phase II prototyping, increasing its efficiency and advancing the technology for low cost high-throughput manufacturing. Project success will lead to flexible CIS PV modules with better efficiency, reliability, consistency and power density even in adverse environments.