Ag requirements for silicon wafer-based solar cells

In 2010, about 2000 t of Ag were used in the contact metallization of silicon wafer-based photovoltaics, consuming approximately 7% of the total annual world Ag supply. With the growth of the photovoltaic industry by 10 times/decade over coming decades not out of the question, Ag supply is clearly an impending material resource issue. Minimum requirements for screen-printed cells are analyzed with the conclusion that design changes will likely be required over the coming decade to reduce use. Copyright (C) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.