Thin Film Solar Panels

A thin-film photovoltaic solar cell is a solar cell that is made by depositing one or more thin layers (thin film) of photovoltaic material on a very thin substrate. These can range from flexible materials on backpacks to more rigid framed modules seen on rooftops. There are three basic types of thin-film solar panels, each based on the the photovoltaic materials used.

• Amorphous silicon (a-Si)
• Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)
• Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIS or CIGS)

Comprising about 10% of all solar panels sold, thin-film modules hold great promise. They have proven to be easy and cheap for use with portable electronics and chargers. However, they have proven less successful as building integrated solar shingles, wall coverings or the ultimate peel and stick application. However, companies like First Solar have deployed thin-film on a massive scale. Blue-chip firms like Dow and DuPoint have been experimenting with thin-film for use in building materials, with limited success to date.

It is important to know that thin-film solar panels produce roughly 1/2 the power of more conventional monocrystalline and polycrystalline modules for about the same cost. Thin-film products are also less proven to withstand the elements over long periods of time. They may not last as long or hold up as well. Nevertheless, thin-film has proven effective at producing electricity in low light, cloudy conditions.