Lusaka thin film photovoltaic panel manufacturer

What are thin-film solar panels?

Thin-film solar panels are manufactured using materials that are strong light absorbers, suitable for solar power generation. The most commonly used ones for thin-film solar technology are cadmium telluride (CdTe), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), amorphous silicon (a-Si), and gallium arsenide (GaAs).

Who makes CIGS thin-film solar cells?

First Solar – First Solar is a leading company in producing the CdTe thin-film solar cells. As of now, First Solar has only served the commercial market. The company holds the world record for CdTe cell efficiency at 18.7%. Solar Frontier – Solar Frontier is one of the top manufacturers for CIGS thin-film.

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.

Where can thin film solar panels be used?

These modules can be installed in commercial/institutional buildings, forest areas, streets, and in large rooftops/open spaces. Thin-film solar panels are suitable for use in solar farms. These solar panels can also be used in street lights and traffic.

How are thin-film solar cells made?

Thin-film solar cells are developed by assembling thin-film solar cells. Typically, these solar cells are created by depositing several layers of photon-absorbing materials layers of photovoltaic or PV materials on a substrate, including plastic, glass, or metal.

Who invented thin-film solar panels?

The idea for thin-film solar panels came from Prof. Karl Böer in 1970, who recognized the potential of coupling thin-film photovoltaic cells with thermal collectors, but it was not until 1972 that research for this technology officially started.