In an effort to reduce the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) for photovoltaic (PV) electricity, the focus is increasingly turning to bifacial PV modules: in a favourable location, rear-side PV cells yield up to 30% more electricity. However, the production of bifacial solar modules is still comparatively cost-intensive. The BiFalo project has therefore set itself the goal of increasing the efficiency and yield of such modules, thereby reducing the LCOE for double-sided PV modules by 10% compared to the current price. In this project, the partners are committed to improving the manufacturing process and design as well as optimizing the yield forecast for bifacial solar modules. The final goal is to develop a highly efficient, durable and lightweight solar module.

A total of six partners from Germany, France and Israel are involved in this project. The International Solar Energy Research Center Constance (ISC) is heading the German research consortium. The researchers there are focusing on optimising the structure of bifacial solar cells in order to increase the energy yield. The most suitable cell and module design for this purpose is being developed in Constance. In addition, the ISC is developing a model in order to be able to perform reliable yield simulations and calculate production and electricity generation costs. The Fraunhofer Center for Silicon Photovoltaics (CSP) is complementing this work with its expertise in cell interconnection and PV module production. Finally, Wavelabs in Leipzig is responsible for performing laboratory measurements and developing a cost-optimized measurement technology for bifacial cells and modules. The next step will be to test this measurement technology and the newly developed modules under realistic conditions.

The German consortium is receiving EUR 735,775 in funding from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) until March 2020.