What do "Dummy Cells" mean in a solar application?
desert-solar
The term "dummy cell" refers to a non-functioning, or fake, solar cell. While it may seem strange to put non-working solar cells in a solar system, there are reasons to do so. The most notable application is in building-integrated photovoltaics, in which solar modules are made to blend in with a building's typical facade. Think solar shingles or solar siding.
Most home solar power utilize solar panels either flush-mounted at the pitch of a south-facing roof or mounted on racks to achieve the optimal tilt toward the sun. But in BIPV systems, quite often more than one side of the roof or building will contain solar modules because newer solar cells can absorb light from a wider spectrum. Still, there are places where shading and lack of sunlight make installing a solar panel unrealistic. It's just not worth the money to put a solar cell where it cannot produce power. However, in BIPV, maintaining uniformity is also important, so a dummy cell is installed that does not produce power, but does have the look. In other words, it talks the talk but doesn't walk the walk.
Dummy solar cells are also used to fill in voids where solar cells could later be added. They can be likened to a long-used construction trick in which fake, blacked-out windows are installed on fake roof dormers to maintain the house's overall aesthetic.
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