A review and analysis of technologies applied in PV modules

The implementation of photovoltaic (PV) systems as an alternative source of energy emerges in the electric sector. In this scenario, the challenge arises to present increasingly efficient solutions for PV conversion. As part of these solutions, several types of technology related to PV modules gain prominence in the scientific milieu and in the market dominated by monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon technologies. Examples are half-cell, double glass, bifacial, PERC, HIT, amorphous silicon, CdTe (cadmium telluride) and CIGS (copper indium gallium selenide) that have the potential for innovation, however, they need to be studied and compared. In this instance, the purpose of this paper is to study the different types of technologies applied in PV modules, verifying the potential of PV conversion of each technology. To evaluate the potential of the technologies, the PV*SOL software was used, limiting an area for the installation of PV modules and simulating the different types of technologies in the limited area. The system with HIT modules presented the best relationship between generated energy and area. HIT technology still presents a high-cost market, meanwhile this technology is expected to be cost-effective in the coming years.