Thin Film Solar Modules: The Low Cost, High Throughput and Versatile Alternative to Si Wafers

摘要: Thin film solar cells (TFSC) have passed adolescence and are ready to make a substantial contribution the world's electricity generation. They can advantages over c-Si modules in ease of large area, lower cost manufacturing several types applications. Factors which limit TFSC module performance relative champion cell discussed along with importance increased throughput yield. The consensus studies is that all achieve costs below 1 $/W if manufactured at sufficiently scale >100 MW using parallel lines cloned equipment high material utilization spray-on encapsulants. There significant new commercial interest from small investors corporations, validating thin approach. Unique characteristics give an advantage two specific markets: rural home systems building integrated photovoltaic installations. outperformed annual energy production (kWhrs/kW), demonstrated outdoor durability comparable being used MW installations worldwide. merits approach cannot be judged on basis efficiency alone but must also account for potential low cost. advocates should promote their unique virtues compared c-Si: cost, higher kWhr/kW output, battery charging current, attractive visual appearance, flexible substrates, long-term stability c-Si, multiple pathways deposition room innovation evolutionary improvement. huge market even today's reduced. A brief window opportunity exists next few years due Si shortage. capabilities proclaimed more persistently funding decision-makers customers without minimizing remaining challenges. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.