The future of thin film solar cells

Abstract

The photovoltaic market is presently dominated by solar cell modules based on the use of crystalline and poly-crystalline silicon wafers. Although this approach produces a robust and reliable technology with still a large remaining potential for cost reduction, thin-film approaches, which eliminate the use of expensive and material intensive silicon wafers, offer greater prospects for the longer term. This paper reviews the current status of these technologies and directions for future evolution.