Abstract: A solar cell has electrical conductors applied on a pattern of electric contacts on a front surface and extending transversely relative thereto with a portion projecting beyond the edge of the solar cell. The formation of the electrical pattern includes at least two elongated portions interconnected by a return portion which extends beyond the one edge. This return portion provides a stiffening suitable for reliable interconnection to an additional solar cell to achieve a connection of two conductors in the projecting region.

Abstract: A composition and method for encapsulating a solar cell which minimizes thermal discoloration, or browning, of the encapsulant. The composition includes an EVA encapsulant, a curing agent and one of two particularly well-suited hindered amine light stabilizers, either O,O-t-Amyl-O-(1,2,2,6,6-Pentamethyl-4-piperidinyl) mono-peroxycarbonate or Poly[(4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidine-ethanol)-co-dimethyl succinate]. Alternatively, if the selected hindered amine light stabilizer is O,O-t-Amyl-O-(1,2,2,6,6-Pentamethyl-4-piperidinyl) mono-peroxycarbonate, the curing agent need not be included. The composition is applied to a solar cell then cured. The cured product withstands thermal exposure and resists thermal discoloration.