The PV Technology Incubator Project

The PV Technology Incubator is structured to allow the utmost in flexible, innovative approaches targeted at research and development of photovoltaic (PV) systems and component prototypes to achieve prototype modules and pilot production. The PV Incubator project receives funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), through the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), and funding opportunities are cyclical. The PV Incubator project targets small businesses that have demonstrated a proof-of-concept/process in a laboratory, but still need to overcome significant barriers before they can achieve commercialization. After 18 months of funding, a successful project is expected to be able to enter the market in the 2011 timeframe at a price point that enables electricity close to grid parity. Ten Incubator subcontractors were awarded in 2007 and participated in Stage-Gate reviews in the summer of 2008. Seven of these companies transitioned to Phase II of their two-phased subcontract based on the outcome of the Stage-Gate review. In addition, a second Incubator solicitation was issued in 2008. The six companies selected for the 2008 round of funding were awarded subcontracts in early 2009. This presentation overviews the PV Incubator project, gives a brief synopsis of the current subcontracts and their accomplishments, addresses progress by subcontracts awarded under the Fiscal Year (FY) 2007 solicitation, and discusses new funding opportunities.