A survey of thin-film solar photovoltaic industry & technologies

Abstract

A new type of solar cell technology using so-called thin-film solar photovoltaic material has the potential to make a great impact on our lives. Because it uses very little or no silicon at all, thin- film (TF) solar technology promises to reduce the cost of solar modules to a level where solar power could compete effectively with power generated from fossil fuel alternatives, thus accelerating our society's transition to distributed, renewable forms of energy sources. Furthermore, because thin-film solar PV materials can be applied to surfaces as varied as glass, plastic and flexible metal foils, this emerging technology could open up new range of applications that otherwise would not be possible using traditional solar cells. The scope of this thesis is to analyze the technical merits of the different thin-film solar technologies, their market and applications, and the dynamics of a growing, new industry. We will compare the different thin-film solar technologies against each other and against the dominant poly-silicon technology. Next, we will take a look at the make up of the thin-film industry and study the different technology strategies employed by players in this industry. We'll highlight a few manufacturers of each type of technology and present a snapshot of the industry in terms of current production and forecasted manufacturing capacity. We'll conclude with a technology outlook and recommend possible technology strategies for firms contemplating entering this industry.