Photovoltaics I: Solar-cell arrays: Clean and silent, solar-cell arrays are targeted to be competitive by 1986

A general view of the solar power industry briefly mentioning the history and indicating the vast advances made up to the present state-of-the-art in terms of technology and economics. Also indicates the possible contribution of solar-cell produced energy to the overall world demand and consumption provided further economic and technological barriers can be overcome. The research and development at present in the fields of solar cell materials, materials growth and the design of solar-cell arrays at present is indicated and the direction and goals are pointed out.