2025 Thin-film solar power generation

What are the different types of thin film solar cells?

The three-mainstream thin-film PV technologies are a-Si, CdTe, and CIGS, which in 2023 offer cell efficacies of 14%, 22.1%, and 23.4%, respectively. The III–V compound solar cells, including GaAs, InP, AlGaAs, and InGaP are also considered potential thin film technology.

When were thin film solar cells invented?

The first thin film solar cells investigated for space applications were Cu (In,Ga) (S,Se) 2 (CIGS) solar cells approximately 20 years ago. It took another approximately 15 years before other technologies, such as CdTe, CZTS and CZTSSe, were studied.

How much does a thin film solar system cost?

The thin film PV technology is broadly covered by CdTe, CIGS, and CIGS. Recently, TOPCon, and tandem PV are considered promising technologies for the next generation mainstream PV solar system. The module costs of PERC, SHJ, CdTe, and CIGS are approximate $0.25/watt, $0.27/watt, $0.28/watt, and $0.48/watt, respectively.

How big will solar power be by 2025?

This installed capacity can be increased to as large as 2.1 TW by the end of 2025 compared with 773.2 GW in 2020 . At present, various PV technologies are being explored with an interest in increasing cell efficiency, enhancing durability, and reducing cost.

Will a special material make thin-film solar cells more efficient?

The US manufacturer is opening new factories and betting that a special material will make its thin-film solar cells more efficient. First Solar is expanding production of its thin-film solar cells and opening new factories to meet a surge of demand.

Can thin-film solar cells be used in space?

Nature Reviews Materials (2024) Cite this article Thin-film solar cells are promising for providing cost-effective and reliable power in space, especially in multi-junction applications. To enhance efficiency, robustness and integration, advancements at the cell level must be combined with improvements in assembly and panel design.