NREL and Natcore collaborate on Black Silicon Research Project

Natcore Technology Inc. has entered a Cooperative Research & Development Agreement with NREL. Under the terms of the CRADA, Natcore and NREL would work together to reach two specific goals: reduce solar cell costs by two to three percent and increase solar panel energy output from three to ten percent over the course of the day without the aid of solar tracking mechanism. These goals will be set by combining Natcore’s patented liquid phase deposition technology with NREL’s technologies for creating a black silicon anti-reflective layer integrated into high-efficiency solar cells. The combination of the two technologies could significantly exceed NREL’s record cell efficiency. Under the terms of the CRADA, the parties will spend $150,000 to reach the stated goals and the amount may be increased if both parties so agree. The initial CRADA has a duration of one year.