The odyssey of thin-film amorphous silicon photovoltaics

Abstract

The authors review the successes of a-Si:H photovoltaics (PV) technology as well as the status of device efficiencies, markets, and commercialization. They propose technological goals for the years 1995 and 2000. These goals are, respectively: the demonstration of the commercial feasibility of PV-generated power by a selling price of 10-15 cents/kWh (1988 dollars); and a reduction of the selling price of PV-generated electricity to approximately half the 1995 price. An approach to achieving these goals is outlined.<>