Abstract:
Solar cells are electronic devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity. Since its invention
in 1954 at Bell Telephone Laboratories, in modern form, solar cells are among the fastest
growing renewable energy sources and it is expected that it will play a major role in the future
global electricity generation mix. Now days, solar photovoltaic systems are becoming the most
promising and accessible renewable technologies, in that because of their small modular size
they are within the reach of individuals, co-operatives and small-businesses who want to have
their own generation of electric power
Thin film solar cells are favorable because of their minimum material usage and rising
efficiencies. The three major technologies thin film solar cells include amorphous silicon (α-Si),
copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), and cadmium telluride (CdTe). In this thesis, the
evolution of each technology is discussed in both laboratory and commercial settings, and market
share and reliability are equally reviewed. The module efficiencies of CIGS and CdTe
technologies almost rival that of crystalline solar cells, which currently possess greater than 55%
of the market share. α-Si is plagued with low efficiency and light-induced degradation, so it is
almost extinct in terrestrial applications. CIGS and CdTe hold the greatest promise for the future
of thin film. Longevity, reliability, consumer confidence and greater investments must be
established before thin film solar cells are reviewed. on building integrated photovoltaic
systems.Furthermore, various types of thin film solar cells and Its Applications are briefly
reviewed. Finally, the advantages of thin film solar cells compared to the conventional
crystalline silicon solar cell and their applications in the society and in industrial activities are
discussed
