Technological and economic aspects of solar cell manufacture

Silicon solar cell technology, including the ribbon Czochralsky process, is reviewed. Other systems such as CuS-CdS and various semiconductor combinations are discussed and their relative merits assessed. The appropriateness of various cell types for use in different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum is an important factor in the selection for large-scale power-generator arrays. Large-scale preparation of silicon is discussed. The cost of production of kW-size silicon arrays is given under Indian conditions for indigenous equipment; it does not exceed $5/Wt. This is considerably less than current estimates for U.S. production, although projected U.S. estimates are lower. Economies of scale are important in these estimates and in the mass production of ribbons, as contrasted with the more wasteful process of ingot wafering and lapping. The possible use of other semiconductors for solar energy production is considered.