Are there different types of thin-film solar panels?

Because the technology for thin-film solar panels has been around for decades, there are multiple different types of thin-film solar panels in use today, and each has its own pros and cons.

What material is used for thin-film solar panels?

Cadmium telluride (CdTe) is the most popular material for manufacturers of thin-film solar panels. Using the EnergySage Marketplace, you can choose from various solar panel installers who can work with different types of thin-film and regular panels. What are thin-film solar panels?

Are thin-film solar panels better than conventional solar panels?

Most thin-film products have shorter life spans and lower efficiency levels than comparable conventional solar panels. Because of this, you’ll generally need a larger amount of space to install thin-film panels, whereas more efficient panels could take advantage of a smaller area. What are the different types of thin-film solar panels?

What are some examples of thin-film solar technology?

Today, two of the most common examples of thin-film solar technology include flexible solar panels (also known as amorphous solar panels) and solar shingles (also known as solar roof tiles).

What is a thin-film solar panel?

Thin-film modules use one of the following four technologies: cadmium telluride (CdTe), amorphous silicon (a-Si), copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), and organic photovoltaic cells (OPV). They use less material than traditional panels, including toxic materials & their construction makes them highly bendable and less susceptible to cracks.

When did thin-film solar panels come out?

In 1980, researchers finally achieved a 10% efficiency, and by 1986 ARCO Solar released the G-4000, the first commercial thin-film solar panel. Thin-film solar panels require less semiconductor material in the manufacturing process than regular crystalline silicon modules, however, they operate fairly similar under the photovoltaic effect.