Comments on: Highly Adaptable Solar Cells

By: Keith Elliott

Keith Elliott — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 23:17:20 +0000

Is it not correct that Nano Solar in California is using a CIGS based printed solar cell for $1 per watt? Unfortunately, I understand that the current production is headed toward Germany. They also constructed another plant in Germany which came in under budget and ahead of schedule. The CIGS panels are but one type which we need here right now, and in huge quantities.

By: Tamar

Tamar — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 06:38:38 +0000

The main disadvantage of Gallium-Arsenide is its expensive processing. This is why it is used mainly in research and in satellites. GaAs advantages: having a direct band gap, which results with high efficiency, and its high absorptivity, which enables thin-film production.

It seem that it is a hard task to lower the price. Indeed, QuantaSol seem to concentrate on improving the efficiency by constructing multifunction cells.

By: Robyn

Robyn — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:25:13 +0000

I thought gallium and indium were incredibly rare elements that are due to run out shortly?

By: Francois

Francois — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:32:50 +0000

IIRC, the total proved and probable reserves of indium are quite limited. The need for recycling would be substantial.

By: Francisco A Roque

Francisco A Roque — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:09:04 +0000

That later statement will be the difference that will make people buy the systems, an effective and costing less is what we all need.