Solar Trees: First Large-Scale Demonstration of Fully Solution Coated, Semitransparent, Flexible Organic Photovoltaic...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Renewable Energy Technology
• Photovoltaics

Background:

• Advancements in flexible solar cell technology are crucial for expanding renewable energy applications.
• The need for aesthetically integrated and large-scale photovoltaic solutions is growing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the technology behind a novel, large-area array of flexible solar cells.
• To highlight the implementation of these modules in a unique solar tree installation.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of large-scale production using standard printing techniques.

Main Methods:

• Development of flexible solar cells with a semitransparent blue appearance.
• Fabrication of large-area arrays using standard printing techniques.
• Integration of modules into a solar tree structure for EXPO2015.

Main Results:

• The flexible solar modules achieved a power conversion efficiency of 4.5%.
• The technology enables large-scale production via established printing methods.
• Successful deployment in a high-profile installation at EXPO2015.

Conclusions:

• The presented flexible solar cell technology is suitable for large-scale manufacturing.
• The unique design and appearance allow for aesthetic integration into architectural elements.
• This technology offers a viable pathway for developing efficient and visually appealing solar energy solutions.