[RenewableEnergyAccess.com] DayStar Technologies recently unveiled a solar photovoltaic (PV) product called “Terrafoil” for use in traditional flat-plate photovoltaic (PV) modules. The company specializes in silicon-free solar cells applied on thin stainless steel foils. Targeted for use by module manufacture companies, TerraFoil is an Copper Indium Gallium Selenid-based (CIGS) alternative to wafer silicon solar cells. The product is presently in the pilot manufacturing stage and is a key component of the company’s long-term product sales strategy. Although the company said they have previously achieved near 17 percent efficiency in a laboratory setting, DayStar is targeting TerraFoil to be manufactured at 10-14 percent efficiency, depending on intended applications and cost requirements. The product will be available in 100mm-150mm square sizes, similar to the majority of the silicon cells produced today, and can be assembled into conventional flat-plate PV modules or applied in more specialized situations that take advantage of the product’s flexibility, such as BIPV applications or wherever PV would need to be applied to a curved surface. The company expects to benefit from the forecasted shortfalls of silicon commonly used for the traditional PV market.
