Area 2: Chalcogenide Thin Film Solar Cells

Area Chair:     Nicolas Barreau, Institut des Matériaux Jean Rouxel, France
Co-Chairs:      Takeaki Sakurai, University of Tsukuba, Japan
Mirjam Theelen, TNO Solliance, The Netherlands

Sub-Area 2.1: Absorber Preparation and Material Properties
Sub-Area 2.2: Contacts, Windows, Buffers, Substrates and Superstrates, Monolithic Integration, and Interfaces
Sub-Area 2.3: Cell and Module Characterization, Analysis, Theory, and Modelling
Sub-Area 2.4: Progress in Manufacturing and Deployment
Sub-Area 2.5/3.3/4.3/6.8: Hybrid Tandem/Multijunction Solar Cells (Joint Area)

Area Description
In recent years, thin film chalcogenide solar cells based on CIGSe and CdTe have achieved remarkable progress in terms of record conversion efficiencies >22% and manufacturing at the multi gigawatts-per-year scale. Over 20 GW of thin film modules are currently installed and operating reliably in the field, helping to bring the cost of PV electricity below most other sources. These exciting developments have been enabled by the decades of work by the worldwide community of dedicated research, development, and manufacturing professionals working on their science and technology.

Area 2 brings this community together yearly to present and discuss contributions on solar cells based on Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2, CdTe, Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4, and other related materials. The aims of Area 2 are to provide a platform for presenting recent and on-going research leading to improved understanding of materials and devices, exploring new directions for more efficient production, and narrowing the gap between champion cell and module efficiencies. Topics range from insights into basic materials science, to analysis of device properties and new device structures, to discussions of the progress in deposition methods and growth control, and to long term performance and reliability. We look forward to an exciting, cutting-edge conference that helps advance the science and technology of these fascinating and technologically-important solar cells.

Sub-Area 2.1: Absorber Preparation and Material Properties
Sub-Area Chair(s): Charlotte Platzer-Björkman, Uppsala University, Sweden
Amit H. Munshi, Colorado State University, USA

Sub-area 2.1 addresses progress in understanding thin film formation and the influence of processing on basic material properties and device performance. Examples of relevant topics include both experimental and theoretical aspects of: morphology, phase coexistence, microstructure, extended and point/bulk defects and their characterization, optoelectronic and transport properties, influence of substrates, compositional gradients and homogeneity, effects of material purity and contaminants, interrelation of properties and cell and module fabrication processes, in-situ, ex-situ and in-line methods of characterization, and impacts on short- and long-term performance.

Sub-Area 2.2: Contacts, Windows, Buffers, Substrates and Superstrates, Monolithic Integration, and Interfaces
Sub-Area Chair(s): Thomas Lepetit, University of Nantes, France
Shubhra Bansal, University of Nevada Las Vegas, USA
Raquel Caballero, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain

The processing and properties of all of the layers in the thin film device stack as well as their integration into monolithically-integrated modules ultimately determine the cell and module performance. Sub-area 2.2 focuses on the functions, effects and properties of substrates/superstrates, contacts, buffer and window layers, and interfaces. Submissions describing advances in understanding these aspects and their effects on short-and long-term performance are welcome. Papers on progress in the cross-cutting areas of transparent conductors, moisture barriers, new or improved substrates, established and novel methods of cell scribing and interconnection in modules, and novel topics not listed are also encouraged.

Sub-Area 2.3: Cell and Module Characterization, Analysis, Theory, and Modeling
Sub-Area Chair(s): Pawel Zabierowski, Warsaw University of Technology, Poland
Thomas Paul Weiss, University of Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Continued progress in chalcogenide photovoltaics relies on continuing to gain insight into the origins of efficiency loss and concepts for overcoming them. Whereas Sub-areas 2.1 and 2.2 focus on the physical properties and processing of the layers making up cells and modules, Sub-area 2.3 addresses their net effects at the device and module level through measurement, analysis, theory, and modelling. These aspects enable feedback to continue improving cells and modules. Contributions are solicited in the areas of novel and established characterization methods, device analysis that yields insight into internal operation, one-, two- and three-dimensional modelling to understand current devices and guide progress, characterization of defects and recombination, and novel related topics not listed.

Sub-Area 2.4: Progress in Manufacturing and Deployment
Sub-Area Chair(s): Matthew Reese, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA
Veronique Gevaerts, TNO Solliance, The Netherlands

The field of chalcogenide thin film photovoltaics is rapidly transitioning from a focus solely on R&D into large-scale manufacturing and deployment. Sub-area 2.4 solicits contributions addressing module and device design, manufacturing and field deployment. Contributors from industry are encourage to share their experience in areas focused on novel manufacturing and improvements to devices from design to long-term performance.

Sub-Area 2.5/3.3/4.3/6.8: Hybrid Tandem/Multijunction Solar Cells (Joint Area)
Sub-Area Chair(s): Stephanie Essig, ZSW, Germany
The Duong, Australian National University, Australia
Steve Albrecht, Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin, Germany

This wide-reaching Sub-Area solicits papers regarding materials, structures, and devices based on combinations of different materials (III-Vs, silicon, chalcogenides, organics, perovskites, etc.) toward the production and characterization of “hybrid” multi-junction solar cells. The full range of integration methodologies are of interest, including but not limited to monolithic epitaxy and deposition, wafer/layer bonding, and mechanical stacking, as well as the characterization of these materials, structures, and devices, from the atomic scale to the device level (and beyond), as related to their hybrid nature. Abstracts on the theory and modeling of such devices are welcome, as is work related to new module and system architectures optimized for such hybrid cells. This is a Joint Sub-Area between Areas 2, 3, 4, and 6, and will host the popular “Battle Royal Session” of previous years.

Area 3: High-Efficiency, Multijunction, and Concentrator Technologies

Area Chair:     Stephanie Tomasulo, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, USA
Co-Chairs:      Rebecca Saive, University of Twente, Netherlands
Taizo Masuda, Toyota Motor Corp, Japan

Sub-Area 3.1: III-V Single and Multijunction Solar Cells
Sub-Area 3.2: Low-Cost, High-Performance III-V Solar Cells
Sub-Area 2.5/3.3/4.3/6.8: Hybrid Tandem/Multijunction Solar Cells (Joint Area)
Sub-Area 3.4: Applications for High Efficiency Solar Cells, including CPV

Area Description
III-V multi-junction solar cells, at least within the last few decades, have been the basis for high-performance terrestrial concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) technologies. However, the multi-junction architecture is also the only proven approach for providing efficiencies beyond the single-junction detailed-balance limit. Area 3 addresses conventional III-V solar cells and CPV technologies as well as other high-efficiency devices such as tandems with Silicon. The area specifically encourages papers that are dealing with the challenge of reducing the production cost and manufacturability of such high performance solar cells to enable competitiveness with the state-of-the-art.

Sub-Area 3.1 focuses specifically on the research and development of “traditional” III-V based single- and multi-junction devices. Given the relatively high costs of III-V materials and devices at present, Sub-Area 3.2 covers developments of low-cost approaches for III-V photovoltaics related to epitaxy, novel fabrication processes or alternate substrate growth. Sub-Area 3.3 encompasses a broader scope regarding the development of “hybrid” tandem solar cells, wherein devices are made up of multiple classes of photovoltaic materials, often including Silicon as the bottom junction. Finally, Sub-Area 3.4 integrates the range of topics related to terrestrial high performance solar cell applications in markets such as low, medium and high concentration PV (CPV), thermophotovoltaics (TPV) as well as area constrained applications e.g. in electric vehicles or consumer products.

Sub-Area 3.1: III-V Single and Multijunction Solar Cells
Sub-Area Chair(s): Ryo Tamaki, University of Tokyo, Japan
Kenneth Schmieder, Naval Research Laboratory, USA

This Sub-Area seeks to address all relevant aspects of the research and development of III‑V single- and multi-junction solar cells for terrestrial applications. Topics of interest include (but are not necessarily limited to): epitaxial growth, materials design and development, solar cell architectures, single- and multi-junction devices, cell-level theoretical modeling, cell-level photon management, ultra-thin devices, wafer bonding, device processing, new manufacturing technologies, material and cell characterization, and III-V cell reliability.

Sub-Area 3.2: Low Cost, High-Performance III-V Solar Cells
Sub-Area Chair(s): Nobuaki Kojima, Toyota Technological Institute, Japan
Kevin Schulte, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA

Topics of interest here are broadly defined as technologies and approaches related to the achievement of lower cost III-V materials and solar cells. Papers are solicited on the growth of crystalline and polycrystalline III-V materials on alternative substrates where the substrate is not an active photovoltaic component (i.e. excluding typical single-crystal materials like Ge or III-Vs). Papers are also sought on low-cost III-V growth and deposition techniques, such as HVPE or ultra-high-rate MOVPE, including technologies to reduce precursor cost and/or consumption as well as hazardous waste treatment. Papers on epilayer lift-off and substrate re-use as well as low cost and high throughput cell processing methods are also sought. This includes e.g. development of low cost metal deposition, low cost back-mirror formation, printing of metal contacts, low cost etching and ARC deposition.

Sub-Area 2.5/3.3/4.3/6.8: Hybrid Tandem/Multijunction Solar Cells (Joint Area)
Sub-Area Chair(s): Stephanie Essig, ZSW, Germany
The Duong, Australian National University, Australia
Steve Albrecht, Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin, Germany

This wide-reaching Sub-Area solicits papers regarding materials, structures, and devices based on combinations of different materials (III-Vs, silicon, chalcogenides, organics, perovskites, etc.) toward the production and characterization of “hybrid” multi-junction solar cells. The full range of integration methodologies are of interest, including but not limited to monolithic epitaxy and deposition, wafer/layer bonding, and mechanical stacking, as well as the characterization of these materials, structures, and devices, from the atomic scale to the device level (and beyond), as related to their hybrid nature. Abstracts on the theory and modeling of such devices are welcome, as is work related to new module and system architectures optimized for such hybrid cells. This is a Joint Sub-Area between Areas 2, 3, 4, and 6, and will host the popular “Battle Royal Session” of previous years.

Sub-Area 3.4: Applications for High Efficiency Solar Cells including CPV
Sub-Area Chair(s): Leah Kuritzky, Antora Energy, USA
Nikhil Jain, X Display Company, USA

This Sub-Area seeks to address all relevant aspects of the research and development of PV systems that benefit from the unique performance of III-V and tandem solar cells. This includes the development PV modules for cars and consumer products, the development of thermophotovoltaic systems (TPV) and of all levels of concentrating photovoltaics (CPV). We invite papers dealing with module related topics such as the development of primary and secondary optics, performance modeling, module/receiver design, module-level environmental mitigation (heat, humidity, etc.), module reliability, or manufacturing advances and concerns. System-related topics of interest include (but are not necessarily limited to): low, medium and high concentration system design, concentrator assemblies, trackers, system-level characterization, soiling, system reliability, environmental influences, maintenance, energy yield and performance modeling/prediction, system-level integrated storage, life-cycle analysis, and economics/financing/markets. We specifically encourage papers on micro CPV, hybrid CPV capturing also diffuse radiation, CPV in urban environments, thermophotovoltaics, laser power conversion and all levels of high efficiency PV integration in cars and other consumer products. Topics related to employing III-V solar cells in hybrid CSP systems or for similar thermal energy storage are also welcomed.

Area 4: Silicon Photovoltaic Materials and Devices

Area Chair:     Anita Ho-Baillie, The University of Sydney, Australia
Co-Chairs:      Kaining Ding, Forschungs Zentrum Jülich, Germany
Zachary Holman, Arizona State University, USA
Baojie Yan, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, China

Sub-Area 4.1: Silicon Material, Feedstock, Wafers and Thin Film Silicon
Sub-Area 4.2: Passivated, Carrier-Selective, and Heterojunction Contacts
Sub-Area 2.5/3.3/4.3/6.8: Hybrid Tandem/Multijunction Solar Cells (Joint Area)
Sub-Area 4.4: Metallization, Interconnection, and Module Integration
Sub-Area 4.5: Device Physics, Simulation, New Characterization Techniques and Light Management

Area Description
Silicon has been the dominant photovoltaic technology for decades, with approximately 95% market share, and yet technological developments are accelerating rather than slowing. Commercial cell efficiencies exceeding 22% are becoming routine as manufacturers transition to PERC structures and high-quality monocrystalline wafers, module costs have fallen below $0.3/W and are now commonly a small fraction of an installed system’s cost, and the emergence of, e.g., bifacial and shingled cells has broadened the module flavors now available.

In this environment of rapid innovation, Area 4 invites contributions that define, understand, and shape the future of silicon photovoltaic science and technology. Topics of interest span the breadth of the silicon solar field, ranging from silicon purity to thin-film deposition, from electronic transport through new contact structures to high-efficiency devices, from light management to loss analysis, and from interconnection to module field degradation caused by cell deterioration. This year we especially invite abstracts from the industry talking about translation from lab to fab, challenges associated with manufacturing processes, market trends, industry roadmaps and challenges and opportunities the industry faces given the uncertainty globally. Area 4 is also accepting abstracts for a Joint Sub-Area on silicon-based tandem and multijunction devices in collaboration with Areas 3 and 6.

Sub-Area 4.1: Silicon Material, Feedstock, Wafers and Thin Film Silicon
Sub-Area Chair(s): Dan MacDonald, Australian National University, Australia
Joachim John, IMEC, Belgium

This Sub-Area covers the first part of the value chain, from silicon feedstock purification and production through crystallization and wafering, including high-performance multicrystalline silicon wafers, improved Czochralski growth, kerf-less slicing technologies, and alternative methods to produce silicon wafers such as direct wafering or epitaxy. Additionally, abstracts are welcome on the mechanical and electrical characteristics of the resulting wafers and their impact on device performance, including material changes during subsequent processing and defect engineering steps. This Sub-Area also covers thin silicon absorbers—including those of amorphous silicon, microcrystalline silicon, and related alloys focusing on their materials properties, deposition methods, cell design and performance, and degradation.

Sub-Area 4.2: Passivated, Carrier-Selective, and Heterojunction Contacts
Sub-Area Chair(s): Kean Fong, Australian National University, Australia
James Bullock, University of Melbourne, Australia

This Sub-Area focuses on contacts formed on silicon absorbers, and specifically those layers that passivate the absorber surface (maintain high quasi-Fermi-level splitting and thus high implied open-circuit voltage) or selectively extract electrons or holes (minimize the quasi-Fermi-level drop across the contact). Abstracts are welcome on the device physics and characterization of contacts, the properties of new contact materials, and the performance of cells with contact layers such as amorphous silicon, tunnel oxides and polysilicon, and metal oxides. Abstracts concerning the deposition methods used to form these contacts are also welcome.

Sub-Area 2.5/3.3/4.3/6.8: Hybrid Tandem/Multijunction Solar Cells (Joint Area)
Sub-Area Chair(s): Stephanie Essig, , ZSW, Germany
The Duong, Australian National University, Australia
Steve Albrecht, Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin, Germany

This wide-reaching Sub-Area solicits papers regarding materials, structures, and devices based on combinations of different materials (III-Vs, silicon, chalcogenides, organics, perovskites, etc.) toward the production and characterization of “hybrid” multi-junction solar cells. The full range of integration methodologies are of interest, including but not limited to monolithic epitaxy and deposition, wafer/layer bonding, and mechanical stacking, as well as the characterization of these materials, structures, and devices, from the atomic scale to the device level (and beyond), as related to their hybrid nature. Abstracts on the theory and modeling of such devices are welcome, as is work related to new module and system architectures optimized for such hybrid cells. This is a Joint Sub-Area between Areas 2, 3, 4, and 6, and will host the popular “Battle Royal Session” of previous years.

Sub-Area 4.4: Metallization, Interconnection, and Module Integration
Sub-Area Chair(s): Henning Schulte-Huxel, Institute for Solar Energy Research, Germany
Daniel Kray, Institut für Energiesystemtechnik (INES), Germany

This Sub-Area covers techniques for electrode formation, including printed metallization, plating, evaporation, dispensing or other transfer techniques, conductive adhesives, soldering, laser and thermal alloying of metals, transparent electrodes, selective doping, and contact opening for metallization The electrodes are also the interface to the subsequent module integration, and thus the Sub-Area also welcomes abstracts on mechanical adhesion, multi-wire technologies, and the interconnection of advanced cell structures like back-contact cells.

Sub-Area 4.5: Device Physics, Simulation, New Characterization Techniques and Light Management
Sub-Area Chair(s): Olindo Isabella, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands
Johnson Wong, Aurora Solar Technologies, Canada

This Sub-Area focuses on understanding, quantifying, and modelling phenomena in silicon solar cells, including new interpretations of device physics, multi-dimensional models, numerical analysis of novel cell concepts, power loss measurement and mitigation strategies, computational simulations, and associated means of validation. Abstracts are also welcome on the development of new device characterization techniques, which may be based on, e.g., photoluminescence or capacitance measurements. This Sub-Area also covers light management within silicon solar cells and thin film silicon. Abstracts are also encouraged on surface engineering of silicon cells to increase photon absorption by classical, diffractive, Mie scattering and plasmonic mechanisms (regardless of whether the silicon absorber is thin), as well as approaches to reduce front-surface reflectance, reduce parasitic absorption, and reject sub-bandgap infrared light.

Area 5: Characterization Methods

Area-Chair:    Laura Schelhas, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA
Co-Chair:       Claus Zimmerman, Airbus, Germany
Ernest van Dyk, Nelson Mandela University, South Africa

Sub-Area 5.1: New Instruments, Methods and Data Analysis
Sub-Area 5.2: Advances in Optoelectronic Characterization Techniques
Sub-Area 5.3: Advances in In-Situ and In-Line Characterization
Sub-Area 5.4: Advanced Characterization of Photovoltaic Materials
Sub-Area 5.5: Advanced Characterization of Photovoltaic Devices
Sub-Area 5.6/8.6: Advanced Characterization of Photovoltaic Modules and Systems (Joint Area)
Sub-Area 5.7: Performance Testing and Standards
Sub-Area 5.8/9.4: PV Module and System Reliability Characterizations: Lab and Field Inspection Techniques (Joint Area)

Area Description
It is impossible to understand innovation in science without the support of measurements and characterization. Measurements are needed at any level of R&D and production – from the investigation of the operating principles of solar cells over to the development of standards for the performance of installed PV systems. Understanding the relations between structure, physical properties, and the resulting PV performance is an exemplary problem in materials science and engineering. Reliable and precise determination of the efficiency and thus power of solar cells and PV modules is crucial for the successful widespread deployment of photovoltaics.

Area 5 is intended for papers with focus on the latest developments in the characterization of photovoltaics. In addition, joint sessions are foreseen for papers with focus on characterization of module and systems (Area 8) and on characterization of module and system reliability (Area 9). For classical characterization of particular absorbers please submit to their respective areas.

Sub-Area 5.1: New Instruments, Methods and Data Analysis
Sub-Area Chair(s): Laura Mundt, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, USA
Leah Kelly, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, USA

This Sub-Area targets novel characterization techniques, equipment and the development of data analysis methods. It is intended to showcase the application of innovative and (pre-) commercialized techniques for characterization of photovoltaics as well as recent developments in data analysis. Papers submitted to this Sub-Area should be science or technology focused with strong technical content, rather than advertisement. Papers are sought which either present new characterization tools or data analysis methods which provide an overview and update on the state-of-the-art application of a particular technique or type of instrumentation. Papers should demonstrate the capabilities of the developed method, describe its operating principles, and/or relate how it extends existing limitations.

Sub-Area 5.2: Advances in Optoelectronic Characterization Techniques
Sub-Area Chair(s): Hidefumi Akiyama, University of Tokyo, Japan
Chuanxiao 'Nick' Xiao, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA

Papers describing any aspect of the optoelectronic response of PV materials and full devices are welcome in this Sub-Area. Examples might include papers on ellipsometry focused on the optoelectronic properties rather than on the materials properties. Luminescence or absorption based methods may fit best in this Sub-Area. Papers focusing on the technique rather than the material aspects are strongly encouraged.

Sub-Area 5.3: Advances in In-Situ and In-Line Characterization
Sub-Area Chair(s): Ana Flavia Nogueira, UNICAMP, Brazil

This involves both laboratory or synchrotron based in-situ characterization as well as in-line high throughput metrologies. This Sub-Area is intended for papers describing how to monitor PV materials during the deposition or growth steps. Papers are sought that describe measurement techniques and/or data analysis methods that are particularly suited for determining material properties and for identifying manufacturing process excursions or that provide other manufacturing-related benefits.

Sub-Area 5.4: Advanced Characterization of Photovoltaic Materials
Sub-Area Chair(s): James Blakesley, National Physics Laboratory, UK

This Sub-Area is on novel methods to study photovoltaic materials, their structure, properties, and how these relate to processing and performance, with a focus on the materials. Examples of topics that would fit into this area include novel scanning probe techniques, such as variants of atomic force microscopy, scanning microwave microscopy, Kelvin probes, and advanced X-ray or photoemission methods, among others. Papers that relate material properties to optical properties, electrical parameters or complete device characteristics should be addressed to Sub-Areas 5.2, 5.3 or 5.5.

Sub-Area 5.5: Advanced Characterization of Photovoltaic Devices
Sub-Area Chair(s): Nikos Kopidakis, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA

This Sub-Area focuses on methods to study photovoltaics as electronic devices rather than the materials that make them up or their optical properties. Submit papers here, which address the challenge of characterizing devices broadly. Examples include but are not limited to: capacitance methods, study of device transients, methods to understand instability in device performance, degradation of device performance, ageing etc. Development of operando measurements are also welcome in this Sub-Area.

Sub-Area 5.6/8.6: Advanced Characterization of Photovoltaic Modules and Systems (Joint Area)
Sub-Area Chair(s): Luo Wei , SERIS/National University of Singapore, Singapore
Natasha Hjerrild, GAF Energy, USA

Papers focusing on characterization of complete modules and systems where the nature of the device is dominated by the ensemble of microscopic behaviors distributed throughout a large area rather than the understanding of individual microscopic behaviors should be submitted in this Sub-Area. For example, papers in this Sub-Area could focus on methods such as LBIC or electroluminescence specifically as applied to understanding module performance rather than the same methods applied to small areas of device. Other examples of papers relevant to this area include adaptation of existing methods to characterize modules from emerging technologies such as perovskites.

Sub-Area 5.7: Performance Testing and Standards
Sub-Area Chair(s): Emilio Fernandez, ESA, The Netherlands

A key component of characterization, especially of cells, modules and systems, is testing of the performance and efficiency. Papers related to such characterization methods are welcome in this Sub-Area. In addition, this Sub-Area is intended for submissions related to standardization approaches to characterization. For example, standards for light flux measurement, calibration methods for simulators, testing temperatures, and other fundamental parameters of characterization that also might potentially be incorporated into future standards can be submitted here.

Sub-Area 5.8/9.4: PV Module and System Reliability Characterization: Lab and Field Inspection Techniques (Joint Area)
Sub-Area Chair(s): Dana Sulas-Kern, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA
Stephanie Moffitt, National Institute of Standards and Technology, USA

Early detection and diagnosis of PV failure modes and degradation mechanisms largely rely on advances in both field and laboratory (destructive and non-destructive) characterization techniques. This Sub-Area explicitly calls for papers presenting novel techniques, progress on deploying, as well as improved analysis and best practice, acquisition and interpretation of inspection data/measurements from existing (or emerging) field characterization techniques (I-V tracing, infrared imaging, electroluminescence imaging, UV fluorescence, etc. or a combination of these). Further to these, laboratory test/inspection methods tailored for fault detection in-situ characterization methods, sensors in correlation with accelerated reliability studies are relevant. Papers studying innovations in the fields of inspection data analytics and diagnostic algorithms, remote failure detection and wide-area inspections for PV systems are also of interest for contributions in this Sub-Area.

Area 6: Perovskite and Organic Materials and Solar Cells

Area-Chair:    Philip Schulz, National Center for Scientific Research, France
Co-Chairs:      Annalisa Bruno, Nanyang University, Singapore
Jeffrey Christians, Hope College, USA

Sub-Area 6.1: All-Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells
Sub-Area 6.2: Stability of Perovskite Materials and Solar Cells
Sub-Area 6.3: Scale-Up and Large-Area Fabrication of Perovskite Solar Cells
Sub-Area 6.4: Organic and Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Sub-Area 6.5: Advances in Perovskite Solar Cell Development
Sub-Area 6.6: Lead-Free and All Inorganic Absorbers for Perovskite Solar Cells
Sub-Area 6.7: Lower-Dimensionality Perovskite Materials and Solar Cells
Sub-Area 3.3/4.3/6.8: Hybrid Tandem/Multijunction Solar Cells (Joint Area)

Area Description
This focus area covers the latest scientific and technical progress of halide perovskite, organic, and hybrid solar cells. Organic and organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite materials are rising stars for solar cell and optoelectronic applications. Based on abundant materials and scalable coating technologies, these emerging PV technologies show potential for low-cost, lightweight, and flexible solar power generation and will soon have to prove their viability in the market with a promising combination of efficiency, stability, and in some cases environmental benignity at scale. Within only one decade of development, the certified power conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells has reached over 25%, while the efficiency of organic solar cells is now also exceeding 17%. Particularly noteworthy are the recent developments concerning the stability of halide perovskite-based solar cells, which result from intense research on material properties (composition, structure, etc.) and device layout (architecture, interfaces, etc.). Although the current state-of-the-art still has a long way to go in order to compete with commercialized solar cells, research on degradation mechanisms and improved cell stability reported in recent publications do suggest that long-term stability could be achievable. In addition, new types of perovskite materials are constantly being explored and developed with the aim of replacing lead (e.g. in double perovskite materials) or to increase film stability (by using mixed dimensional perovskites). Another important research trend is the development of fabrication technologies for high throughput fabrication (e.g. slot die coating, spray coating, soft cover technique, vacuum evaporation and chemical vapor deposition, etc.), which would pave the way towards high throughput large area perovskite solar cells and modules with minimal device-to-device variations and is therefore moving this technology closer to commercialization.

Area 6 presents itself as an ideal forum for researchers in the field to present their progress in the area of photovoltaic application and to exchange their views, discuss current challenges, and identify future research topics. The rapid development of organic and perovskite materials and devices in the past few years marks the strong foundation for this Area. To facilitate a comprehensive discussion on the broad scope of aspects, Area 6 spans over various principal topic areas as listed below.

Sub-Area 6.1: All-Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells
Sub-Area Chair(s): Jianghui Zheng, University of New South Wales, Australia

Sub-Area 6.1 covers progress on the development of all-perovskite tandem and multijunction solar cells with the potential to reach power conversion efficiencies beyond the S-Q limit of single junction cells. The focus of this Sub-Area is on novel concepts, solar cell fabrication, device testing, and module implementation. We thus welcome contributions, which feature experimental and theoretical work on proof-of-concepts, device implementation, and the interplay between the various absorber films and interlayers in the cell layout.

Sub-Area 6.2: Stability of Perovskite Materials and Solar Cells
Sub-Area Chair(s): Solenn Berson, Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission, France
Erin Sanehira, Hunt Energy Enterprises Solar, USA

Reaching a high level of reliability and durability is key to the continued development of perovskite solar cell technology. Hence, sub-Area 6.2 is dedicated to the progress of perovskite solar cell stability concerning all device components, i.e. from the perovskite absorber layer to the various interlayers and contacts. Discussed topics thus include intrinsic and extrinsic degradation mechanisms, efficiency loss issues in perovskite photovoltaics, and strategies for improved stability. Work from a broad scope of research is welcome, ranging from fundamental studies on degradation processes at the nanoscale to industrial encapsulation strategies and durability testing.

Sub-Area 6.3: Scale-Up and Large-Area Fabrication of Perovskite Solar Cells
Sub-Area Chair(s): Jean Rousset, Electricité de France, France
Maikel van Hest, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA

With the growing demand for utility scale implementation of perovskite solar cell modules, sub-Area 6.3 has its focus on the development of scale-up, large-area fabrication and processing, high-throughput, as well as environmentally friendly and green manufacturing technologies for large-area perovskite solar cells. The range of topics in this Sub-Area covers, but is not limited to, perovskite module design, module testing, fabrication techniques, process chain evaluation, and life cycle assessment.

Sub-Area 6.4: Organic and Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Sub-Area Chair(s): Denis Tondelier, Ecole Polytechnique, France

Sub-Area 6.4 covers progress on the development of pure organic solar cells and dye-sensitized solar cells, including material optimization, the use of fullerene and non-fullerene based molecules, new charge transport materials and device designs. The Sub-Area will feature fundamental studies, as well as solar cell fabrication and testing. Hence, we welcome a broad range of submissions from first principles design and synthesis of new donor and acceptor materials, over methods of controlling and characterizing their microstructure in thin films, to finally device optimization, stability and scalability.

Sub-Area 6.5: Advances in Perovskite Solar Cell Development
Sub-Area Chair(s): Nakita Noel, Princeton University, USA
Hyun Suk Yung, Sungkyunkwan University, Korea

Sub-Area 6.5 covers the latest developments in organic-inorganic hybrid and fully inorganic halide perovskite based solar cells. The rapid progress in this material class for solar cells came as a surprise to many as power conversion efficiencies of perovskite solar cells are already comparable to those of established thin film technologies. The optoelectronic properties of the materials are highly tunable, making them attractive for a range of applications including building-integrated PV and tandem solar cells. This sub-Area focuses especially on the tunability offered by substitution of elemental and molecular components in the perovskite structure, which may enable better performance, new device architectures, design of interfaces in the layer stack, advances in fabrication routes, and novel processing steps. We invite contributions from the broad range of topics relating to halide perovskite-based PV.

Sub-Area 6.6: Lead-Free and All-Inorganic Absorbers for Perovskite Solar Cells
Sub-Area Chair(s): Ashley Marshall, University of Oxford, UK
Yixin Zhao, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China

Substituting lead in the absorber materials has become a primary target to increase the sustainability of perovskite solar cell fabrication. In Sub-Area 6.6 we are looking forward to receiving contributions on the development of lead-free perovskite solar cells, including work on the absorber material design, solar cell optimization and device stability. Featured studies could hence focus on fundamental aspects of lead-free perovskites and perovskite-like absorber materials, as well as theoretical and experimental work on perovskite solar cells, that are either entirely lead-free or feature a reduced amount of lead in the absorber layer.

Sub-Area 6.7: Low-Dimensional Perovskite Materials and Solar Cells
Sub-Area Chair(s):Giulia Grancini, University of Pavia, Italy

Low-dimensional halide perovskite absorbers offer a unique route to improve the stability of perovskite solar cells, either as additives in the precursor solution or as dedicated interlayer in the devices stack. In particular, Ruddlesen-Popper (RP), Dion-Jacobson (DJ) and perovskites with alternating cations in the interlayer space (API) types of 2D perovskite materials have been very popular in recent years. Sub-Area 6.7 covers progress on the development of perovskite materials with low or mixed dimensionality and solar cells that integrate these variants in the absorber film or at the interfaces.

Sub-Area 2.5/3.3/4.3/6.8: Hybrid Tandem/Multijunction Solar Cells (Joint Area)
Sub-Area Chair(s): Stephanie Essig, ZSW, Germany
The Duong, Australian National University, Australia
Steve Albrecht, Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin, Germany

This wide-reaching Sub-Area solicits papers regarding materials, structures, and devices based on combinations of different materials (III-Vs, silicon, chalcogenides, organics, perovskites, etc.) toward the production and characterization of “hybrid” multi-junction solar cells. The full range of integration methodologies are of interest, including but not limited to monolithic epitaxy and deposition, wafer/layer bonding, and mechanical stacking, as well as the characterization of these materials, structures, and devices, from the atomic scale to the device level (and beyond), as related to their hybrid nature. Abstracts on the theory and modeling of such devices are welcome, as is work related to new module and system architectures optimized for such hybrid cells. This is a Joint Sub-Area between Areas 2, 3, 4, and 6, and will host the popular “Battle Royal Session” of previous years.

Area 7: Space and Specialty Technologies

Area-Chair:    Jeremiah McNatt, NASA, USA
Co-Chairs:      Mitsuru Imaizumi, JAXA, Japan
Roberta Campesato, CESI, Italy

Sub-Area 7.1: Space Solar Cells: Including Radiation Effects and Calibration
Sub-Area 7.2: Space PV Systems: Including Panels, Arrays, Structures, and Space Environment Impacts
Sub-Area 7.3: Flight Experience and Reliability of Space Photovoltaic Power Systems
Sub-Area 7.4: Novel Space PV Technologies: Flexible, Lightweight and Cost-Effective Solar Power for Space and Terrestrial UAV and High-Altitude Applications

Area Description
Area 7 is concerned with all aspects of photovoltaic power generation subjected to extreme environments. The space and near space environment combines UV light, particle radiation, extreme temperatures and vacuum, to name a few of the environmental factors. Papers are thus welcome that deal with the entire breadth of PV under these conditions, from cell and material technologies up to complete systems. The associated Sub-Areas are Space Solar Cells and Space PV Systems, which includes solar panel and blanket technology as well as solar arrays and structures. With typical long lifetimes, e.g. up to 15 years in GEO, combined with the inability to service the space PV systems, reliability and the correct prediction of the on-orbit performance is of key importance and will be covered in the Flight Experience and Reliability Sub-Area. Of particular interest are ground based degradation experiments, cell and material degradation studies, flight experiments, and on-orbit measurements.

Area 7 also welcomes a wide range of specialty technologies such as mobile solar power (MSP), flexible and lightweight PV, and PV that operates in non-traditional environments, such as on UAVs and automobiles. These topics are of interest for the Specialty Technologies Sub-Area.

We also highly encourage contributions from students who are working in relevant research areas. We invite your papers on any subjects related to space PV described above, and look forward to your contribution!

Sub-Area 7.1: Space Solar Cells: Including Radiation Effects and Calibration
Sub-Area Chair(s): Pilar Espinet Gonzalez, California Institute of Technology, USA

This Sub-Area focuses on photovoltaic device approaches, modelling, and recent developments in high performance photovoltaic materials and devices for space applications. Advanced multijunction solar cells (with three or more junctions) with performance reaching towards 33% end of life efficiency that are in development worldwide are of particular interest. Although III-V multijunction architectures dominate space PV, this Sub-Area is not limited to this material system nor is it limited to multijunction cells. Radiation hardening technologies that enable longer on-orbit capability are sought in this Sub-Area. Contributions dealing with the AM0 measurement and calibration of solar cells also belong to this area.

Sub-Area 7.2: Space PV Systems: Including Panels, Arrays, Structures, and Space Environment Impacts
Sub-Area Chair(s): Sean Wood, SpaceX, USA
Robert Walters, Air Force Research Laboratory, USA

This Sub-Area focuses on technology developments associated with space PV systems at all component levels required for providing power on a spacecraft. This Sub-Area covers integration of space solar cells onto rigid panels and flexible blankets all the way through advanced solar array concepts. Technologies required for electrostatic discharge control, stabilization against ionizing radiation (e.g., UV, particles), interactions with electric propulsion subsystems and development of space solar concentrator technologies, incorporating both the optical concentrating element as well as the solar cell thermal control element are included as well. Also of interest are papers that describe 'New Space' approaches to lower cost, standardized solar panels both fixed and deployable, for smallsat (including Cubesat) constellations.

Contributions are sought for all power classes, from the microsatellite power range up to the several 100 kW range, with design consideration from low to high voltage arrays, which are required for large spacecraft for new telecommunication services or solar electric propelled deep space missions. To this end, papers with a mechanical focus are explicitly encouraged in this area. Also welcome are contributions that deal with platform aspects and their interaction with the solar array.

Sub-Area 7.3: Flight Experience and Reliability of Space Photovoltaic Power Systems
Sub-Area Chair(s): Claus Zimmerman, Airbus, Germany

This Sub-Area deals with the on-orbit performance and reliability of space photovoltaic power systems and components. An essential aspect are the results from on-orbit experimentation and operation of PV power systems and their analyses. Reliability assessments via experimentally determined degradation behavior, e.g. due to particle irradiation or contamination, are encouraged. In this context, papers addressing the end-of-life performance with the help of degradation modelling are also of high interest. Papers dealing with reliability improvements due to particular qualification approaches and test standards are welcome. Papers covering cell and power system testing using CubeSats are also encouraged.

Sub-Area 7.4: Specialty PV: Flexible, Lightweight and Cost-effective Mobile Solar Power for Terrestrial, UAV and High-altitude Applications
Sub-Area Chair(s): Lyndsey McMillon-Brown, NASA, USA

This Sub-Area covers progress on the development of novel solar cell and array materials, emerging hybrid devices, and strategies for reducing costs for space and high altitude missions. This includes flexible and lightweight solar cells, sheets and related integration systems for terrestrial, UAV and high-altitude applications. Papers are sought that describe the development of thin cell technologies including material growth, cell fabrication and testing. Papers covering developments of flexible solar sheet fabrication methods, studies on improvement of sheet durability; ruggedness and overall energy generation are invited. Papers discussing cost reduction technologies for both cell production and cell integration for use in non-traditional environments are encouraged. Development of photovoltaic sheets for systems applications such as battery charging, portable power, powering flexible electronics, and emerging technologies such as PV for automobiles covering both the military and civilian energy power application are of interest in this Sub-Area for their potential use in future space missions.

Area 8: PV Modules Manufacturing and Applications

Area Chair:     Bonna Newman, TNO Energy Transition, Netherlands
Co-Chairs:      Zhe Liu, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
Zi Ouyang, University of New South Wales & Nanjing AGG Energy Co., Australia/China

Sub-Area 8.1: Module Materials, Design, and Manufacturing
Sub-Area 8.2: System Design, Optimization and Performance
Sub-Area 8.3: Modelling and Predicting Energy Yield
Sub-Area 8.4: Strategies for Performance Monitoring and Rating
Sub-Area 8.5: Novel Applications and Integration of PV
Sub-Area 5.6/8.6: Characterization Techniques for PV Modules and Systems (Joint Area)

Area Description
The PV module is the mechanical support and electrical connection of the cells. It offers both electrical protection and protection from the environment. It is the primary product around which a PV system is based and it can be modified and optimized for locations, environments, and applications. As such, the PV module represents the cornerstone product of the PV industry. Recently, innovations in module construction have been largely responsible for significant increases in efficiency, annual yield, and the corresponding decreases in the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for photovoltaic electricity generation. New materials, assembly technologies, and structures are being developed for PV modules and will further reduce costs and increase performance. For example, bifacial modules are becoming an increasingly attractive way to reduce cost via increased energy yield. Additionally, customers and operators are seeking and utilizing energy yield prediction methods to reduce investment risk. Improved energy yield estimates will reduce some of the soft costs in financing and thus further reducing the LCOE. Area 8 is seeking papers describing significant advances in module technology, PV module design and manufacturing, methods for forecasting and modelling energy yield and performance, innovative PV deployment and new applications, as well as testing and system monitoring.

A detailed description of each Sub-Area is provided below. For each Sub-Area, papers reporting completed work, accompanied by validation from the field, laboratory testing, or comprehensive modelling are encouraged and welcome.

Sub-Area 8.1: Module Materials, Design, and Manufacturing
Sub-Area Chair(s): Zhe Liu, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA

In Sub-Area 8.1, abstracts are invited that describe new materials and methods for module production with particular interest on: new materials for backsheets, encapsulants, glass, or interconnects; new techniques for module assembly to reduce cost, increase efficiency or enhance reliability; new designs for bifacial applications; module adjustments and optimization for extreme environments; and novel module electrical configurations. In coordination with Sub-Area 9.4, we particularly welcome submissions describing state-of-art or new methods for module manufacturing quality control, including quality assurance of module materials and subcomponents; statistical process control; and automation of module assembly.

Sub-Area 8.2: System Design, Optimization, and Performance
Sub-Area Chair(s): Eric Gerritsen, CEA/Ideafix, France

In Sub-Area 8.2, abstracts are invited that describe new concepts for complete photovoltaic systems, methods of system optimization, field results, full life-cycle analysis of system components and system performance analysis. System optimization could be for energy yield, LCOE, self-consumption, LCA and end of life considerations or other aspects important for a specific application or environment. In particular, we welcome submissions describing system design and optimizations for bifacial modules, trackers in PV systems, floating PV, grid-connected or off-grid systems and performance comparisons with the system performance models. Note that the papers related to forecasting and solar resource should be submitted under Area 9 and power electronics methods for optimization in Sub-Area 9.4 or Area 11.

Sub-Area 8.3: Modelling and Predicting Energy Yield
Sub-Area Chair(s): Gregory Kimball, SunPower, USA

Sub-Area 8.3 focuses on PV methods of module modelling and the prediction of produced energy. Abstracts relating to mechanical, thermal and electrical modelling of PV modules and systems including methods for determining parameters for these models are also welcome. Abstracts of particular interest are those describing: methods for determining model parameters from laboratory and/or outdoor characterization for different modules and installation types; models for the effect of solar spectrum on module output; and methods for estimating system losses, e.g. shading losses, or temperature variations, BOS related losses, etc.

Sub-Area 8.4: Strategies for Performance Monitoring and Rating
Sub-Area Chair(s): Kendra Conrad, Array Technologies, USA

Sub-Area 8.4 welcomes abstracts reporting novel methods and technologies for system or individual module monitoring during operation, improved techniques for system performance testing, and research describing novel analysis strategies to extract the information on system or module health and performance from available monitored data. We welcome abstracts describing: advances in or evaluations of methods for determination of plant performance metrics; procedures for conducting commissioning and acceptance tests. We particularly invite abstracts reporting efforts to compare and/or harmonize among the various standards for system testing and rating.

Sub-Area 8.5: Novel Applications and Integration of PV
Sub-Area Chair(s): Zi Ouyang, University of New South Wales & Nanjing AGG Energy Co., Australia/China

Sub-Area 8.5 welcomes abstracts describing recent advances in building integrated PV systems (BIPV), off-grid PV systems, hybrid systems, mini/micro-grids, DC end-use systems, mobility and transportation systems, infrastructure-integrated PV, agri-PV, and other not-traditional PV applications. In particular, we welcome abstracts reporting new innovations, visions for future development, and advanced analyses of the cost reduction potential for building related PV applications, advances in building design tools with integrated PV modelling functionality, as well as reports of building power system performance. We are particularly interested in topics covering design and engineering advances, novel requirements, dual-use studies, and results from system simulations and field demonstration. In addition, we would like to emphasize papers that have a goal of leveraging the distributed nature of solar PV to enhance social equity. Note that papers related to floating PV or PV on water should be submitted in Sub-Areas 8.2, 8.3, or 8.4 where applicable.

SSub-Area 5.6/8.6: Advanced Characterization of Photovoltaic Modules and Systems (Joint Area)
Sub-Area Chair(s): Luo Wei , SERIS/National University of Singapore, Singapore
Natasha Hjerrild , GAF Energy, USA

Papers focusing on characterization of complete modules and systems where the nature of the device is dominated by the ensemble of microscopic behaviors distributed throughout a large area rather than the understanding of individual microscopic behaviors should be submitted in this Sub-Area. For example, papers in this Sub-Area could focus on methods such as LBIC or electroluminescence specifically as applied to understanding module performance rather than the same methods applied to small areas of device. Other examples of papers relevant to this area include adaptation of existing methods to characterize modules from emerging technologies such as perovskites.

Area 9: Module and System Reliability

Area Chair:     Teresa M. Barnes, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA
Co-Chairs:  Karl-Anders Weiß, Fraunhofer ISE, Germany
Thomas Reindl, SERIS, Singapore

Sub-Area 9.1:PV Materials and Module Durability and Accelerated Testing Methods
Sub-Area 9.2: Reliability and Safety of Power Electronics, Balance of System, and Connected Storage Components
Sub-Area 9.3: Field Experiences in PV Systems
Sub-Area 5.8/9.4: PV Module and System Reliability Characterizations: Lab and Field Inspection Techniques (Joint Area)
Sub-Area 9.5: Effects and Mitigation of Soiling on PV Systems
Sub-Area 9.6/12.5: Module and System Reliability in the Circular Economy (Joint Area)

Area Description
Long-term durability, reliability of PV systems is critical for reliable and efficient energy production as the share of renewables increases in our energy mix. Moreover, the systems delivering the expected return on investment for all players along the value chain provide the industrial driver for continued growth. PV system lifetimes are extending to 30-40 years and are often deployed in harsh weather conditions. The industry is both risk averse requiring all new technologies (from PV, cell through module materials, components and systems elements) to prove their robustness in extensive testing before field deployment and rapidly adopting new technologies faster than they can be field tested. More systems are being deployed on areas subject to harsh weather including high winds, flooding, hail, lightening and fire, which requires additional diligence for resilient system design. Finally, long-lasting and reliable PV systems are also the foundation for an ecologically sustainable PV system. Area 9 is now also encouraging papers on solar + energy storage systems.

Within this context, Area 9 considers the reliability and resiliency of all types of PV systems and their components and technologies as well as impact of materials, processing, installation and operations throughout the value chain. Topics especially critical to the success of the PV industry include comprehensive reporting of failures and degradation rates on the field, and in-depth understanding of physics/chemistry of degradation/failure modes for current and next generation PV materials and technologies. Inverter and BOS failures are frequently reported in the field and are of special interest in this Area. This serves as a foundation for development of adapted accelerated tests, and the validation of those tests’ ability to correlate with outcomes in the field. Discussion of best practices in Design-for-Reliability, Failure Mode and Effect Analysis, manufacturing Quality Assurance and Safety measures, and resiliency are within the interest of the Area; as well as the latest development of science-based standards and test protocols.

Submission of papers on detailed scientific research studies as well as visionary papers addressing the full range of these topics are invited. Area 9 has been divided into six subareas, as presented below. This area may also host joint sessions with other Areas related to characterization and balance of system components.

Sub-Area 9.1: PV Materials and Module Durability and Accelerated Testing Methods
Sub-Area Chair(s): Michael Owen-Bellini, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA
Gernot Oreski , Polymer Competence Center Leoben, Austria
Tadanori Tanahashi , National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Japan

Module and module components are subject to high temperatures, thermal cycling, humidity, ultraviolet light, electrical, and mechanical stresses. These can result in a variety of failure mechanisms such as glass corrosion, encapsulant browning, EVA yellowing, backsheet cracking, bubbling and delamination, interconnect fatigue and corrosion, frame corrosion and fatigue, bypass diode failure, junction box failure, and cable and connector failure and etc. Submissions are encouraged on experimental studies of the chemistry and physics of these or other module failure mechanisms, accelerated stress tests and method to extract acceleration factors, modelling of degradation and failure rates, interfacial and multi-scale module simulations. Reports linking failure modes to material, module manufacturing, process parameters and insights in critical controls are invited. Studies of degradation rates in recently developed high performance modules using high efficiency mono, bifacial and/or tandem cells (PERx, n-type, HIT, IBC, large wafers/cells etc.), high density module designs (shingling, tiling, cut cells, close spacing, bifacial, large modules) and next generation module materials (AR-coatings, backsheets, encapsulants etc.) are of interest, as are studies demonstrating field-relevant accelerated testing. Papers presenting detailed Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) to assess the potential failure modes and development of adapted tests are also of interest. Studies presenting reliability of modules and materials for novel applications and conditions (lightweight, floating, tracked), and integrated PV solutions (BIPV, ViPV, IIPV) are of interest.

Sub-Area 9.2: Reliability and Safety of Power Electronics, Balance of System, and Connected Storage Components
Sub-Area Chair(s): Jennifer Braid, Sandia National Laboratory, USA
Jenya Medbray, PV Evolution Labs, USA

The field durability of PV power electronics is an important factor in overall system lifetime and strongly impact its cost. PV system power electronic and BOS components (including trackers, inverters, converters, cables, combiner boxes, bypass diodes, optimizers etc.) are subject to thermal cycling, heat and humidity, freezing and moisture, electrical bias, ultraviolet light, and mechanical stresses that result in a variety of failure mechanisms such as corrosion, metallization fatigue, electronic component failure, aging of materials, and breakage. The exact nature of the degradation will vary with the type of component and the environmental conditions during operation. Inverters may experience problems with transistors, cooling or software failures. This Sub-area welcomes papers on identification and elucidation of the failure mechanisms, accelerated stress tests and acceleration factors, modelling of degradation and failure rates, climate specific effects, understanding the effects of system design (voltage, mechanical, string/central inverter) on reliability, extreme and routine weather events, and critical quality controls in manufacturing. High voltage system designs, high DC/AC ratios, string vs. central inverters, connector studies, and tracker performance studies are strongly encouraged. Interlinked module to system component level mechanisms such as potential induced degradation, the impact of higher power and bifacial modules on power electronics reliability, localized environmental effects such as saltwater on electronics, and integration of module electronics into PV modules are one of the focus topics. Accelerated testing, system design, safety, and early performance studies of DC and AC coupled storage are of strong recent interest.

Improved functionality and documentation of field reliability studies for power electronics will be another focus of this Sub-Area, as well as novel methods for improved safety (fire prevention, arc detection/mitigation, shock hazards, ground and series arc faults, mechanical integrity).

Sub-Area 9.3: Field Experiences in PV Systems
Sub-Area Chair(s): Ioannis Tsanakas, Institut National de l'Énergie Solaire (INES-CEA), France
Abhishek Kumar, Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS), Singapore
Dirk Jordan, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA

This Sub-Area focuses on statistics of types of failures, data analysis techniques for field data for large-scale and small-scale systems, analysis of mechanisms of observed degradation and failures, electrical and mechanical impacts of failures, degradation rates models, safety and operational failures from large PV systems, expected vs. actual field performance, and long-term operation models of PV plants. Submissions may include (but are not limited to) analysis of field observations from deployments of all PV technologies, methods of analysis of such data, experimental approach and energy yield predictions, best practices and technical/economic insights into operations and maintenance, and models or reviews that paint the big picture of what is happening in the real world. Papers studying PV system-level availability, in diverse climatic and site conditions, reliability related to extreme environmental events, mounting methods, and interactive effects are encouraged. Innovations in the field of system data analytics and remote failure detection are also of interest. This area encourages submissions of field experiences with inverter or BOS failure, repowering, field repair, energy storage, varying DC/AC ratios, and bifacial field performance.

Sub-Area 5.8/9.4: PV Module and System Reliability Characterization: Lab and Field Inspection Techniques (Joint Area)
Sub-Area Chair(s): Dana Sulas-Kern, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA
Stephanie Moffitt, National Institute of Standards and Technology, USA

Early detection and diagnosis of PV failure modes and degradation mechanisms largely rely on advances in both field and laboratory (destructive and non-destructive) characterization techniques. This Sub-Area explicitly calls for papers presenting novel techniques, progress on deploying, as well as improved analysis and best practice, acquisition and interpretation of inspection data/measurements from existing (or emerging) field characterization techniques (I-V tracing, infrared imaging, electroluminescence imaging, UV fluorescence, etc. or a combination of these). Further to these, laboratory test/inspection methods tailored for fault detection in-situ characterization methods, sensors in correlation with accelerated reliability studies are relevant. Papers studying innovations in the fields of inspection data analytics and diagnostic algorithms, remote failure detection and wide-area inspections for PV systems are also of interest for contributions in this Sub-Area.

Sub-Area 9.5: Effects and Mitigation of Soiling on PV Systems
Sub-Area Chair(s): Govindasamy (Mani) Tamizhmani, Arizona State University, USA/em>
Leo Micheli, University of Jaén, Spain
Nicoleta Voicu, DSM, The Netherlands