RTI International, one of the world's leading independent, non-profit research organizations, headquartered in North Carolina, just released a new solar technology that could reduce the cost of Hawaii solar/Hawaii photovoltaic panel production by as much as 75%.

The technology utilizes solutions of semiconductor particles, which are known as colloidal quantum dots. The panels made from these semiconductor particles match the panels currently on the market in terms of power efficiencies but they are significantly cheaper to produce.

The cost of photovoltaic panels has hindered growth in the solar industry. Ethan Klem, a researcher at RTI and the principle investigator on this project, said in a news release that:

“Solar energy currently represents less than 1 percent of the global energy supply, and substantial reductions in material and production costs of photovoltaics are necessary to increase the use of solar power. This technology addresses each of the major cost drivers of photovoltaics and could go a long way in helping achieve that goal.”

An initial analysis of the technology shows that these cells can be produced for less than $20 per square meter. That represents an almost 75% decrease from current production costs for photovoltaic panels.

The cells are composed of lightweight, flexible layers and could be manufactured using high volume roll-to-roll processing along with an inexpensive coating process. The RTI-cells can also be manufactured at room temperature, which saves a lot of energy costs during production. An added bonus is the cells ability to utilize more of the solar spectrum through increased sensitivity to infrared.

Solar energy represents a significant opportunity for Hawaii. We have abundant sunshine year round in almost every corner of our state. By decreasing the cost of photovoltaic systems and increasing the tax and other incentives, we can achieve our statewide HCEI (Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative) goals much sooner.

Sunetric offers affordable, attractive and efficient solutions for home and business owners who are trying to save on the cost of energy. Living in the islands where all of our oil is imported, increasing our renewable energy alternatives is the only way to go.