Abstract
This paper describes the recent technological advances in polycrystalline thin-film solar cells and modules. Three thin film materials, namely, cadmium telluride (CdTe), copper indium diselenide (CulnSe2, CIS) and silicon films (Si-fllms) have made substantial technical progress, both in device and module performance. Early stability results for modules tested outdoors by various groups worldwideare also encouraging. The major global players actively involved in the development of these technologies are discussed. Technical issues related to these materials are elucidated. Three 20-kW polycrystalline thin-film demonstration photovoltaic (PV) systems are expected to be installed in Davis, CA in 1992 as part of the Photovoltaics for Utility-Scale Applications (PVUSA) project. This is ajoint project between the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), California Energy Commission (CEC), and a utility consortium.
Original language | American English |
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Number of pages | 9 |
State | Published - 1991 |
Event | 6th International Photovoltaic Science and Engineering Conference - New Delhi, Incia Duration: 10 Feb 1992 → 14 Feb 1992 |
Conference
Conference | 6th International Photovoltaic Science and Engineering Conference |
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City | New Delhi, Incia |
Period | 10/02/92 → 14/02/92 |
Bibliographical note
Prepared for the 6th International Photovoltaic Science & Engineering Conference, New Delhi, Incia, 10-14 February 1992NREL Publication Number
- NREL/TP-214-4610
Keywords
- cadmium telluride (CdTe) photovoltaic solar cells modules
- copper indium diselenide (CIS)
- photovoltaics (PV)
- polycrystalline
- silicon
- solar energy
- thin films