Austin’s HelioVolt Corporation has been awarded a Phase I SBIR contract by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to further develop its unique device model for predicting the performance of photovoltaic (PV) devices made from the Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) material system, and to then use the model to determine the feasibility of using HelioVolt’s patented FASST™ synthesis process to produce devices for electric power generation in high altitude airships.
Dr. BJ Stanbery, HelioVolt’s CEO, explains: “CIGS PV devices require 1/100 the semiconductor material of silicon devices to absorb the same amount of light, thus reducing weight and cost.” One distinct advantage of the FASST™ process cited by the MDA is that it employs a vastly reduced thermal budget compared to conventional production processes. “This slashes the energy payback period, and is especially important for the lightweight metal foil and polymer substrates preferred for aircraft and spacecraft,” he added.
Five patents have already been issued to HelioVolt for FASST™, covering process, equipment, and devices. The most recent patent was issued on May 18, 2004, and there are two more US applications pending. HelioVolt will be an equipment supplier to manufacturers, offering a license to its process and selling factory systems which will enable them to produce PV modules with lower costs. It also allows PV modules to be made cost competitively with a much lower initial investment than a production line for conventional silicon PV modules. HelioVolt will locate its R&D facilities in Austin, and intends to license manufacturers in the Americas, Europe, and Asia to serve their respective regional markets.