PUBLISHER: Information Network | PRODUCT CODE: 1483212
PUBLISHER: Information Network | PRODUCT CODE: 1483212
Analysis of the Solar Markets for Crystalline and Thin Film Solar Cells
Introduction
The solar energy market is at the forefront of the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions, with crystalline and thin film solar cells playing pivotal roles in this transformation. Our report, "Analysis of the Solar Markets for Crystalline and Thin Film Solar Cells," provides an exhaustive examination of these two key segments, exploring their technological advancements, market trends, and strategic challenges. This comprehensive analysis is designed for industry professionals, offering essential insights into the factors driving the growth and adoption of solar technologies, and guiding strategic decisions for future investments and development.
Trends in Crystalline and Thin Film Solar Cell Technology
The solar market is characterized by rapid technological innovation and diverse applications of crystalline and thin film solar cells. Crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar cells, which include both monocrystalline and polycrystalline types, dominate the market due to their high efficiency and proven performance. One significant trend in this segment is the continuous improvement in conversion efficiencies, driven by advancements in manufacturing techniques and materials. Technologies such as passivated emitter rear cell (PERC) and bifacial modules are enhancing the efficiency and energy yield of crystalline solar cells, making them more attractive for both residential and commercial installations.
In parallel, the thin film solar cell market is gaining momentum, especially in applications where flexibility, lightweight, and lower costs are critical. Thin film technologies, including cadmium telluride (CdTe), amorphous silicon (a-Si), and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), are being developed to offer competitive efficiency levels while utilizing less material and energy in the production process. A notable trend in the thin film sector is the increasing use of CIGS technology due to its higher efficiency and adaptability to various substrates, which is expanding its applications in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and portable solar solutions.
Moreover, the solar market is witnessing a growing emphasis on sustainability and the circular economy. Both crystalline and thin film solar cell manufacturers are exploring eco-friendly materials and recycling methods to reduce the environmental impact of solar panels. This trend is supported by stricter regulatory frameworks and an increasing demand for greener energy solutions from consumers and businesses alike.
The Need to Purchase This Report
Understanding the complexities and opportunities in the solar energy market is essential for businesses aiming to succeed in this competitive industry. This report provides a detailed analysis of the current technological trends, market drivers, and challenges impacting the crystalline and thin film solar cell segments. By purchasing this report, industry professionals will gain valuable insights into the advancements and strategic issues shaping the solar market, enabling them to make informed decisions and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Our report offers strategic recommendations for leveraging technological trends to enhance product performance and market positioning. It includes comprehensive market forecasts, competitive landscape assessments, and a thorough examination of the key players driving innovation in both crystalline and thin film solar cell technologies. Companies looking to invest in solar technology or expand their market presence will find this report indispensable for identifying growth areas and understanding competitive dynamics.
In summary, "Analysis of the Solar Markets for Crystalline and Thin Film Solar Cells" is an essential resource for industry professionals, engineers, researchers, and business leaders. It provides a detailed exploration of the technological trends and market dynamics influencing the solar energy sector, equipping readers with the knowledge necessary to navigate this rapidly evolving field and capitalize on its potential. This report is designed to inform strategic planning, investment decisions, and the development of innovative solar solutions that will drive future success in the global energy market.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction
Chapter 2. Solar Cell Technology
- 2.1. Introduction
- 2.2. Generations of development
- 2.2.1. First Generation
- 2.2.2. Second Generation
- 2.2.3. Third Generation
- 2.3. History
- 2.4. Theory of Operation
- 2.4.1. Simple explanation
- 2.4.2. Photogeneration of charge carriers
- 2.4.3. Charge carrier separation
- 2.4.4. The p-n junction
- 2.4.5. Connection to an external load
- 2.4.6. Equivalent circuit of a solar cell
- 2.5. Solar cell efficiency factors
- 2.5.1. Maximum-power point
- 2.5.2. Energy conversion efficiency
- 2.5.3. Fill factor
- 2.5.4. Quantum efficiency
- 2.5.5. Comparison of energy conversion efficiencies
- 2.5.5.1. Peak watt (or Watt peak)
- 2.5.5.2. Solar cells and energy payback
- 2.6. Light-absorbing materials
- 2.6.1. Bulk
- 2.6.1.1. Silicon
- 2.6.2. Thin films
- 2.6.2.1. CdTe
- 2.6.2.2. CIGS
- 2.6.2.3. CIS
- 2.6.2.4. Gallium arsenide (GaAs) multijunction
- 2.6.2.5. Light absorbing dyes
- 2.6.2.6. Organic/polymer solar cells
- 2.6.2.7. Silicon Thin Films
- 2.6.3. Nanocrystalline solar cells
- 2.6.1. Bulk
- 2.7. Concentrating photovoltaics (CPV)
- 2.7.1. Introduction
- 2.7.2. Commercial reflectors
- 2.8. Overview of research on materials and devices
- 2.8.1. Silicon processing
- 2.8.2. Thin-film processing
- 2.8.3. Polymer processing
- 2.8.4. Nanoparticle processing
- 2.8.5. Transparent conductors
- 2.8.6. Perovskite Solar Cells
- 2.8.7. PERC (Passivated Emitter And Rear Cell)
Chapter 3. Solar Cell Manufacturing
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. How Solar Cells Are Made
- 3.2.1. Silicon Solar Cell
- 3.2.2. Etching And Texturing
- 3.2.3. Diffusion And Edge Isolation
- 3.2.4. Anti-Reflection Coating
- 3.2.5. Metallization
Chapter 4. Thin Film Technology
- 4.1. Introduction
- 4.2. Silicon Deposition Technologies
- 4.2.1. Amorphous Silicon Deposition
- 4.2.2. Microcrystalline Silicon Deposition
- 4.3. Compound Semiconductor Deposition Technologies
- 4.3.1. Introduction
- 4.3.2. CdTe-Cadmium Telluride
- 4.3.3. CIGS-Copper Indium Gallium Selenide
- 4.3.4. GaAs-Gallium Arsenide
- 4.3.5. Perovskite
Chapter 5. Solar Markets
- 5.1. Introduction
- 5.2. Key Growth Drivers
- 5.2.1. Government Incentives
- 5.2.2. Low Cost Solar
- 5.2.3. Large Market Among Underserved Populations
- 5.3. Challenges Facing The Solar Power Industry
- 5.4. Cost Of A Photovoltaic System
- 5.5. Operating Metrics Of A Photovoltaic System
- 5.6. Types Of PV System
- 5.6.1. Grid Connected Sector
- 5.6.2. Off-Grid Sector
- 5.6.3. Market Development
- 5.7. Market Analysis
- 5.7.1. Solar Cell Market
- 5.7.2. Polysilicon Solar Cell Market
- 5.7.2.1. Wire Saw Wafering Technology
- 5.7.2.2. Kerfless Wafering
- 5.7.3. Thin Film Solar Cell Market
- 5.7.3.1. Driving Forces
- 5.7.3.2. Competing Technologies
- 5.7.3.3. Third-Generation Technologies
- 5.7.4. Thin Film Solar Cell Equipment Market
- 5.7.5. Substrates
- 5.7.6. Manufacturing Costs
- 5.8. Disruptive Technologies
List of Figures
- 2.1. Light Absorption Through Layers In A Multijunction Cell
- 2.2. Triple Junction a-Si/a-SiGe/a-SiGe Cell Structure
- 2.3. A Two-Junction Amorphous-Silicon Solar Cell
- 2.4. Solar Cell Technology Roadmap
- 2.5. Best Research-Cell Efficiencies
- 2.6. Dye Sensitized Solar Cell Schematic
- 2.7. Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cell
- 2.8. Schematic Of Sliver Cell
- 3.1. Diagram Of Solar Cell
- 3.2. Cross Section Of A Solar Cell Under Illumination 3.
- 3.3. Conventional vs PERC Processing
- 3.4. Polysilicon Manufacturing And Supply Chain
- 4.1. Sharp's Triple-Junction Solar Cell
- 4.2. Factory Flow For 20 MW/Year CGS Facility
- 4.3. Schematic Of CdTe And CIGS Device Structures
- 4.4. CdTe Thin Film Deposition By VTD
- 4.5. CdTe Thin Film Deposition By Close Space Sublimation (CSS) Schematic
- 4.6. CdTe Thin Film Deposition By VTD2
- 4.7. CIGS Deposition System By Evaporation
- 4.8. Cross-Sectional Schematic Diagram Of The InGaP/InGaAs/Ge ATJ Cell
- 4.9. Cross-Sectional Schematic Diagram Of a Perovskite Cell
- 5.1. Cost Projections of Solar Panels
- 5.2. Evolution Of Global Annual Installations
- 5.3. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2000
- 5.4. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2001
- 5.5. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2002
- 5.6. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2003
- 5.7. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2004
- 5.8. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2005
- 5.9. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2006
- 5.10. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2007
- 5.11. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2008
- 5.12. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2009
- 5.13. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2010
- 5.14. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2011
- 5.15. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2012
- 5.16. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2013
- 5.17. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2014
- 5.18. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2015
- 5.19. Solar Vendor Market Shares-2016
- 5.20. Solar Cell Production by Region-2016
- 5.21. Solar Cell Forecast-2010-2020
- 5.22. Solar Cell Production By Type
- 5.23. Thin Film Solar Cell Production By Type-2010-2020
- 5.24. Polysilicon Production And Consumption (MT)
- 5.25. Polysilicon Sales by Region
- 5.26. China Polysilicon Imports
- 5.27. Kerfless Wafering
- 5.28. Best Research-Cell Efficiencies
- 5.29. Schematic Diagrams Of Thin-Film CdTe, CIGS, and a-Si Thin Film PV Devices
- 5.30. Thin Film Solar Cell Power As A Percentage Of Total Solar Power-2005-2020
- 5.31. Thin Film Solar Cell Power As A Percentage Of Total Solar Power-2003-2020
- 5.32. Schematic Thin-Film Roll-To-Roll Equipment
List of Tables
- 3.1. Polysilicon Capacity Forecast
- 4.1. Thin Film CIGS Solar Cells Efficiencies
- 4.2. Highest Efficiencies PV Modules
- 5.1. Top 10 Solar Manufacturers By Shipments-2015-2016
- 5.3. Market Share Of Solar Cells By Technology-2008-2020
- 5.4. Polysilicon Production Capacities By Company-2010-2017
- 5.5. Polysilicon Supply/Demand Forecast-2013-2020
- 5.6. Wafering Technology Forecast
- 5.7. Wire Saw Companies
- 5.8. Saw Wire and Diamond Wire Companies
- 5.9. CdTe Thin Film Solar Cell Producers
- 5.10. CIGS Thin Film Solar Cell Producers
- 5.11. 3G Thin Film Solar Cell Producers
- 5.12. CIGS Manufacturers and Deposition Methods
- 5.13. Cost Comparison Of Thin Film Technologies
- 5.14. Number Of Solar Equipment And Materials Companies-Chinese, U.S., Other
- 5.15. Top Non-Chinese Equipment Supplier Revenues
