What are thin film solar cells?
The term "thin-film solar panels" is somewhat self-explanatory, as it refers to thin, light, and low-profile solar power products. You may have first encountered thin-film solar panels on meters or solar-powered garden lanterns, but the technology is now used in everything from home appliances to commercial building materials.
The two most common examples of thin-film solar technology today are flexible solar panels (also known as amorphous solar panels) and solar shingles (also known as solar shingles). Because thin film panels are light and can follow the appearance of different surfaces, products using this technology are unique solutions for buildings, vehicles and other interesting applications.
According to Solar Magazine, by 2022, thin-film solar panels will account for only 10% of the photovoltaic (PV) technology market. However, the technological aspect has attracted the attention of many people who are turning to solar energy. As Cal Solar project developer Perry Meek explains: "A lot of people ask about thin-film solar panels, even if they don't really know what they're called."
More . Types of solar cells
Advantages and disadvantages of thin film solar panels
Compared to traditional solid-state solar cells, thin-film solar panels have several advantages and disadvantages.
General advantages of thin film solar panels
The elegant and sometimes unobtrusive appearance of thin-film solar panels often makes them more attractive than large rooftop panels.
New Jersey-based columnist Robin told ConsumerAffairs. “I finally got to live on a Tesla solar roof (roofs, not panels) and I couldn't be happier. I needed a new roof anyway, so I decided to buy one with two PowerWall batteries. The product looks amazing and IMO is the best sunscreen on the market right now.
While shingles and shingles are probably the most popular thin film solar products on the market, building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) is only the tip of the technology iceberg. Thin-film solar panels are often flexible and sometimes transparent, making them one of the most versatile renewable energy products currently under research and development.
Common Disadvantages of Thin Film Solar Panels
The bad news is that thin film solar panels aren't perfect. Most thin film products have shorter lifetimes and lower efficiency levels than conventional solar cells. As a result, it often takes more space to install thin-film panels, while more efficient panels can use less space.
Professionals
- Soft, thin, very thin
- Can be used as roofs and solar panels.
- Often flexible and easy to install in different locations
- It can be cheaper than traditional panels
Disadvantages:
- Shorter lifetime than traditional solar cells
- Less efficient than traditional solar panels
- More prone to scratches, dirt and damage
- You need more installation space
What are the types of thin film solar panels?
Since thin-film solar panel technology has been around for decades, there are many different types of thin-film solar cells in use today, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Amorphous silicon (a-Si). This type of solar cell has a wider range of applications and lower material costs than traditional solar cells, making it an economical choice. However, it has low power generation efficiency and requires a large installation space. The lifespan of these panels is also shorter than most types of solar panels.
- Cadmium telluride (CdTe). These panels are easy to manufacture and much research is being done to improve their performance, making them a promising option for the future. However, they currently have a low level of efficiency. Another disadvantage is that they contain toxic and hard-to-find substances.
- d) copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS). These panels have the highest level of performance among thin film panels under various conditions and are flexible, making them suitable for a variety of applications. However, their research and access is limited but ongoing. In addition, they are more expensive to manufacture than other thin films and rigid panels.
- Organic photovoltaic panels (OPV). These panels are cheap, easy to manufacture and install. They are environmentally friendly, thin and light. However, they have a very low level of efficiency and a short lifespan.
Each type of thin film solar cell also has many unique innovations that manufacturers use to create new and efficient products. For example, several companies are developing double-sided thin-film solar panels that can use sunlight on both sides and the bottom of the panels to increase overall output.
How much do thin film solar panels cost?
In general, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $9,000 to install thin-film solar panels on an average-sized home. However, it is important to remember that there are many differences between different manufacturers and products, and some installations require more equipment than others. In addition to the cost of the panels, you may also pay for the operation of your solar system, permits, and other components such as the inverter.
More. How much do solar panels cost?
Current thin-film solar cells can last 10 to 20 years, and solid-state solar cells 25 to 30 years.
It's hard to put this price range into context because compared to traditional solar cells, thin film solar panels can be cheaper or more expensive depending on the technology. For example, while amorphous silicon (a-Si) or cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin film solar panels cost less than solid alternatives, copper gallium diselenide (CIGS) thin film panels tend to be more expensive.
The lifespan of your equipment plays an important role in maximizing your return on investment. Therefore, although thin-film solar cells are initially cheaper than solid-state solar cells, they may be less cost-effective in the long run if they do not last as long.
Thin film solar cells cost per watt
Given the available technology and affordability, thin-film solar panels typically cost between 50 cents and $1.50 per watt, excluding installation and other related costs. To account for this, buying enough solar panels costs $3,000-$9,000 for an average 6kW thin-film solar panel system.
While cost per watt is an important metric to consider when evaluating solar options, we reiterate that it's important to consider all project costs when comparing options. However, in most cases, thin-film solar panels require much less equipment to install than solid-state solar cells, which can make them less expensive overall, especially if you do it yourself.
Are thin film solar panels worth buying?
Although technology has come a long way, many still believe that traditional solar panels are the most efficient solution for on-site renewable energy generation. That said, if the aesthetics of your installation are more important to you, thin film solar panels may be the best option.
To determine if thin film solar panels are right for you, consider their pros and cons and talk to several solar companies in your area. Get quotes from multiple suppliers, including reviews of projects using solid-state solar panels, so you can compare all your options and make smart purchases.
Frequently asked questions
How efficient are thin film solar panels?
Thin film solar panels have an efficiency of 7% to 18%. This means that some thin-film solar cells are starting to achieve efficiency levels similar to traditional solid-state solar cells by compressing around 20%.
More. More efficient solar panels
How do thin film solar panels work?
Thin film solar panels are manufactured using a variety of manufacturing methods and materials. Unlike traditional solar panels, most thin-film solar panels consist of multiple layers of glass, plastic, or metal that insulate the panel's conductive materials.
More. How are solar cells manufactured?
How do thin film solar cells react to high temperatures?
Compared to traditional solar cells, thin film modules generally have higher thermal stability. However, high temperatures can reduce the efficiency of thin film solar panels.
How long do thin film solar panels last?
You can expect most thin film solar panels to last 10-20 years before their output degrades significantly, but the actual lifespan of your thin film solar panels depends on the specific product you choose and the operating conditions.
For reference, today's most advanced solid state solar panels were designed 20-30 years ago.
» Find out. How long do solar panels last?
- Text sources
- ConsumerAffairs authors rely primarily on original research from government data, industry experts, and other authoritative publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Solar Magazine, Thin Film Solar Panels. The Definitive Guide | Types, advantages and disadvantages. From June 14, 2023
