What are thin-film solar cells?

Thin-film solar cells have widespread commercial usage in several technologies such as copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS), cadmium telluride (CdTe), and amorphous thin-film silicon (a-Si, TF-Si). These solar cells are capable of converting solar energy to electrical energy by applying the principle of the photovoltaic effect.

What are the different types of thin-film photovoltaic cells?

According to these criteria, the following types of thin-film photovoltaic cells are found. Color-sensitive solar cells (DSC) and other organic solar cells. Cadmium telluride is the most advanced thin-film technology.

Can thin-film solar cells reduce the cost of photovoltaic systems?

One of the main obstacles that came in the way of large-scale production and expansion of photovoltaic (PV) systems has been the steep price of the solar cell modules. Later, researchers developed one of the solutions to reduce this cost is by creating thin-film solar cells.

What are thin film solar cells (TFSC)?

Thin film solar cells (TFSC) are a promising approach for terrestrial and space photovoltaics and offer a wide variety of choices in terms of the device design and fabrication.

What are the three major thin film solar cell technologies?

The three major thin film solar cell technologies include amorphous silicon (α-Si), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), and cadmium telluride (CdTe). In this paper, the evolution of each technology is discussed in both laboratory and commercial settings, and market share and reliability are equally explored.

What materials are used to make thin-film solar panels?

The manufacturing process depends on various PV substances such as amorphous silicon (a-Si), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), and cadmium telluride (CdTe). Unlike the conventional solar panels, thin-film solar panels do rely on quality molten silicon ingots for production. The following are the leading manufacturers of thin-film PV: