Current status of thin-film solar cells and future prospects

An overview of the recent status of photovoltaic (PV) power generation is first presented. Next, the Japanese roadmap for the research and development (R&D) of PV power generation and the progress in the development of various solar cells are explained. In addition, the present status and future prospects of Si thin-film solar cells, which are expected to enter the stage of full-scale practical application in the near future, are described. Thus far, a-Si/μc-Si tandem solar cell modules with conversion efficiency exceeding 13% have been reported. In addition, triple-junction solar cells are introduced, as well as innovative thin-film full-spectrum solar cells and Si nano-wire solar cells, whose target year of realization is 2030-2050.