A method for applying a conductive metal bus bar/tab system to the peripheral edge region of a substrate (1), such as an ophthalmic lens (8) is disclosed. The method involves: 1) applying a conductive metal bus bar (15 or 16) to said substrate; and 2) attaching a tab (9 or 10) to said bus bar through a conductive bonding agent (11 or 12) so as to ensure electrical contact between the tab and bus bar (Figs. 2-4). Related devices are also disclosed.