PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) solar cells, known as PERC solar cells, are naturally derived from conventional aluminum rear field cells (BSF). It is also now a way and option to build solar panels.
PERC cells are modified from ordinary solar cells. PERC cells are 6 to 12 percent more efficient than conventional solar cells, and may have an extra layer on the back of conventional cells. The extra layer can thus capture more sunlight and convert it into electricity, making PERC cells more effective than conventional ones.
Since PERC solar cells are a modification of conventional cells and solar pv cables and connectors, they can be manufactured utilizing the same equipment. This makes it simple for makers to alter and create more efficient batteries. With more efficient batteries, fewer panels are required to generate the same amount of electricity compared to typical panels. But modifying the battery on a traditional basis produces a weakness. Most PERC solar panels have metal strips or bands running through them. If these bands crack or break, they are more likely to lose their ability to generate electricity.
What are the differences between traditional solar cells and PERC solar cells from the perspective of structure:
The figure below shows a cross-section of a typical solar cell built-in module. These are the layers, from top to bottom.
1. Positive contact 2. Anti-reflective glass 3. Negative (N type) silicon layer 4. Positive (P type) silicon layer 5. Back field (BSF) 6. Rear contact
The following figure displays a profile of the PERC solar cell built into the module. These are the layers, from top to bottom.
1. Positive contact 2. Anti-reflective glass 3. Negative (N type) silicon layer 4. Positive (P type) silicon layer 5. Local surface region
6. Passivation layer 7. Dielectric capping layer 8. Rear contact
The main problem with this technique is a problem called light-induced degradation (LID), which occurs in all silicon solar cells, but may be notably pronounced in PERC cells. LID occurs when boron and oxygen from the positive silicon layer mix, usually resulting in a small, immediate reduction in generating capacity.
Another problem that can arise in all silicon solar cells is called potential-induced degradation (PID), which occurs when there is a potential difference between the cells and materials of the solar module and the ground. This is also apparent in PERC.
These are also essential, pointing out why PERC didn’t catch on when it was originally developed in the 80s.