Photovoltaic solar cells: Choice of materials and production methods

Photovoltaic solar cells and modules are produced for: (i) large scale power generation, most commonly when modules are incorporated as part of a building (building integrated photovoltaics, BIPV) but also in centralised power stations, (ii) supplying power to villages and towns in developing countries that are not connected to the supply grid, e.g. for lighting and water pumping systems, (iii) supplying power in remote locations, e.g. for communications or weather monitoring equipment, (iv) supplying power for satellites and space vehicles, (v) supplying power for consumer products, e.g. calculators, clocks, toys and night lights. This paper reviews the choice of materials and main methods of manufacture of photovoltaic solar cells and modules that are commercially available. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.