The Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) has developed the world's first full-size interdigitated back contact (IBC) bifacial solar module using ZEBRA solar cells from the International Solar Energy Research Center (ISC) in Konstanz, Germany.

With high-efficiency IBC silicon solar cells of 6 in. in width, the 60-cell bifacial module is capable of producing up to 400 W of electric power, a much higher power compared to conventional modules with power output in the range of 270 to 290 W.

Encapsulated using the double-glass structure, IBC bifacial solar modules offer a warranty period of 30 years or more. Furthermore, by utilizing the bifacial nature of the solar cells, as much as 30 percent extra power is generated by the double-glass module due to reflection of sunlight from the ground towards the module's rear surface.

"With SERIS' new module design, panels with 350 W front-side power can be made with sixty 23 percent efficient screen-printed IBC cells,” said Wang Yan, director of SERIS' PV Module Cluster. “Considering an additional 20 percent of power via the panel's transparent rear surface, each 60-cell IBC bifacial module will produce a stunning 400 W of power in the real world."

SERIS is Singapore's national institute for applied solar energy research. SERIS conducts research, development, testing and consulting on solar energy technologies and their integration into power systems and buildings.