Structuring the transparent cover of solar cell modules reduces reflec
tion losses, particularly at large angles of incidence. Relevant aspec
ts are good transmission efficiency independent of wavelength and a lo
w sensitivity to pollution. The macroscopic, linearly grooved structur
e proposed in this article shows good performance only in combination
with a textured cell because large angles are likely to occur inside t
he structured cover. A classification is made with the concept of annu
al averaged transmission efficiency for the climatic zone of Freiburg.
Calculations and measurements for different combinations of smooth an
d structured covers and solar cells are presented. From the calculated
97.8% entering the structured glass cover, a measured 93.2% can be co
upled into a pyramidal textured monocrystalline solar cell. This is an
absolute improvement of 17% compared to a smooth, uncoated solar cell
with a smooth glass cover. Outdoor measurements showed that a texture
d solar cell with a structured cover has between 5 and 10% higher valu
es of short-circuit current than a textured cell with a smooth cover.