Conclusion
In conclusion, the adoption of the proposed alternative metallization technique, employing a screen printed bi-layer configuration with either Ag/Ni or Ag/Cu, presents significant advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness. These configurations, while maintaining a similar level of performance as traditional Ag contacts, substantially reduce the silver consumption and hence the overall metallization cost per wafer. Importantly, these cost savings are reflected in the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), showcasing the potential of this alternative technique to bring about notable cost efficiencies in the solar power industry. Although the efficiency loss due to higher series resistance and the slight increase in thermal budget for contact firing of bi-layer contacts are to be taken into account, the reduction in metal costs substantially outweighs these factors, resulting in a lower LCOE. This innovative approach, combining enhanced performance with economic viability, has the potential to significantly advance the manufacturing process of solar cells and bolster the broader transition towards more sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.