Advances in solar photovoltaic technology: an applications perspective

Advances in photovoltaic module technology, inverters, system installation practices, and design standards are improving the performance of PV systems and have led to PV becoming established as a strongly competitive energy source for off-grid energy applications. PV is also on the cusp of becoming competitive in grid connected configurations and is currently experiencing strong growth in this type of application. Substantially reduced PV module cost and higher module efficiency compared to products of just a decade ago are playing a key role in this expansion. The introduction of modern inverters that are more efficient, have higher reliability, and improved utility system interface features are also facilitating market growth. In addition, experience gained from hundreds of thousands of PV installations over the past decade, as well as a maturing base of PV service providers, system integrators, and new industry design standards has led to improved designs and economies in the installation of PV Systems. Overall, PV energy costs have fallen by a factor of about 2 over the past decade and the prospects for continued improvement are strong. This presentation reviews advances in PV technology and the role they are playing in its expansion.