SIMPLIFIED METHOD OF ENCAPSULATING FRAGILE PV CELLS FOR COTTAGE INDUSTRY PRODUCTION OF PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES

More than two decades ago, Richard Komp developed methods of manufacturing PV modules without using the encapsulation systems that need special, complex laminating machines. This led to the development of photovoltaics as a cottage industry where people, including villagers in the developing world could make and install their own PV systems, bypassing the need to purchase PV modules made in the developed world and keeping their money in their locality. However, the introduction of thinner, more fragile PV cells has required modifications to this simple encapsulation technique; and more recently; the step drop in the price of finished modules has led to a careful reassessment of the costs and methods used in these techniques. This work, the details of which are given in this paper has been successful and cottage PV module manufacturing is still a viable option for developing countries.