Thin Film Solar Cells And Its Application

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