Thin Film Solar is Almost There

periodic table + solar

The solar panels that most people are used to are made from computer-chip quality silicon wafers, and known as crystalline silicon. When the sun’s energy hits the semi-conductor, electrons get excited and a current is created. (in a nutshell) These have shown great promise, but are yet to be cost competitive with other sources of energy on a nationwide scale without subsidies. (But read why NYC is different)

Thin film solar combines the silicon with other materials to create a thinner and more flexible solar cell. Right now these cells are not as efficient as the crystalline silicon ones–they only recently cracked 10% efficiency–but they are much cheaper. A promising company, First Solar, manufactures thin-film cells that produce electricity for $1.19/watt (link) compared to a little over $3 for crystalline silicon. They do most of their business right now in Europe (that is where the market is), but are intent on expanding their US business and have their eye on beating coal on price (as does everyone). They recently purchased Turner Renewable Energy and have sold most of their production capacity through 2012. Look for them to be a major player in the coming years.


Posted on Friday, December 7th, 2007 at 3:42 pm | Tagged in Energy, Photovoltaics, Renewables | posted by Marc

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