A transparent, conductive collector layer containing conductive metal channels is formed as a layer on a photovoltaic substrate by coating a photovoltaic substract with a conductive mixed metal layer. A heat sink having portions protruding from one of its surfaces is attached. These protruding portions define a continuous pattern in combination with recessed regions among them such that they are in contact with the conductive layer of the photovoltaic substrate. Heating the substrate while simultaneously oxidizing the portions of the conductive layer exposed to a gaseous oxidizing substance forced into the recessed regions of the heat sink, creates a transparent metal oxide layer on the substrate. A continous pattern of highly conductive metal channels is contained in the metal oxide layer
