UMG silicon for solar PV: From defects detection to PV module degradation

Upgraded metallurgical grade silicon (UMG-Si) for photovoltaic (PV) solar applications has been manufactured through the route by means of process developed Ferrosolar. In an ambitious mass production test, performed in commercial cells and modules lines, was proven to be appropriate photovoltaics (Fornies et al., 2019 Mass test made 100% umg silicon. 20.76% record efficiency. Energies 12), reaching, a conventional line, up cell efficiency with multicrystalline UMG this paper we present more results from mentioned massive test. Defect engineering is being applied improve bulk lifetime wafers guide identification limiting defects material. Moreover, produced were installed together same line polysilicon material assess degradation when compared polysilicon. After 24 months outdoor PV generation, degradation, terms Performance Ratio at 25C (25PR) diminution, both types modules. Additionally, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) state-of-the-art Siemens compare environmental impact feedstocks. The presented paper; chemical analysis wafers, defect engineering, low average assessment, lead complete study silicon, confirming its potential used as raw applications.