The use of technologies is increasing with time and grabbing people’s attention in this progressing era. Of these amazing technologies, thin film solar technology is at the top and facilitates its users exceptionally. They are prior due to their efficiency that they are lightweight and work even when the light is weak. Thin solar panels are also called flexible solar panels that are composed of one or more layers of special thin-film material that absorb maximum light and produce electricity. You might be thinking that it doesn’t sound reliable. They give you stable output even in low conditions. Don’t think much; they are reliable, Dude!
If you are interested in availing this opportunity, this article is written for your help! Keep going!
Types of Thin Film Solar Panels
The conductive sheets, photovoltaic material, and protective layers are the major components of these panels. Have a closer look at the major types of thin film panels!
#1. Amorphous Silicon (a-Si)
It is the most attractive solar cell that is abundant and non-toxic in nature. It needs a lower temperature for processing and is able to produce a low-cost and flexible substrate that needs little silicon. The majority of materials used to produce silicon panels are inexpensive. They are relatively high cost due to the expensive conductive glass used in them.
#2. Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS)
CIGS Thin-Film Solar Panel is a versatile material that is manufactured by different processes and implemented in different ways. This is used for commercial use mainly to run their business well due to its high efficiency. One thing that is best about this panel is its easy installation and happy use. They perform well in low-intensity light and ensure low-temperature resistance. Its current cost is relatively high, but its manufacturers promise to reduce its cost in the future.
#3. Gallium Arsenide (GaAs)
It is common semiconductor material used in mono-crystalline thin panels. They give maximum output due to their high efficiency and superior thermal performance. They are composed of a hierarchical buffer layer, that’s why they achieve a high-efficiency percentage. Its price is expected to reduce in the future. It is a very experimental and expensive technology which is the reason for its low market share.
#4. Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)
It is the second most common material after silicon, but they are less efficient than silicon. This is the reason behind its budget-friendly cost. They are fabricated cells that are designed by the p-n junction; the p-doped layer is combined with the n-doped layer.
Materials Used
The following components are mainly combined to form these thin panel cells:
- Conductive sheet-to reduces electricity loss and enhances conductivity. It will increase its efficiency too.
- Protective covering-to shields the solar module from the components and enhance its durability. This coating will increase the lifespan of these panels.
- Photovoltaic material-semiconductor material is used to convert sunlight into energy or electricity.
Verdict
If you are thinking of a lightweight solar system, the thin film panels are best for you. These offer you reliable and portable solar technology for the future, which is so fascinating. They are very flexible with a minor weight, that’s why they are recommended to boat owners and RV mainly.
