The most common classification of solar cell technologies is according to first, second or third generation, referring to the way they are produced and the materials utilised. The main difference between each generation class is the material used for the semiconductor component and the structure of its crystal.
First Generation Cells
First generation solar cells include both monocrystalline and polycrystalline cells. These are generally flat plate cells used for rooftop PV applications. Monocrystalline (‘one crystal’) cells are those produced from silicon wafers cut from a silicon crystal. These solar cell types are usually the most expensive, but also have the highest efficiency rating i.e. between 15 – 24%, due to the purity of the silicon used.
Polycrystalline cells are those produced from molten silicon or thin silicon wafers cut from multiple crystals that were formed together. As a result, this type of cell has a lower production cost but has a lower efficiency rating of 13 – 18%.
Second Generation Cells
Cells derived from an assortment of non-silicon materials, for example copper-indium-diselenid, cadmium telluride or amorphous silicon, are referred to as second generation cells. These cells are also known as thin film cells as the thickness of the silicon element is only a few micro-meters in width.
Amorphous silicon
Copper-Indium-Diselenid (CIS)
Cadmium-Telluride (CdTe)
Third Generation Cells
There are also some manufacturers who use a more innovative approach and produce cells from organic materials. Examples include those cells with a polymer or nanocrystal base; concentrated or dye sensitised solar cells. These are referred to as third generation cells and can be considered emerging technologies under research, as there are not commercially proven yet.
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