FLEXIBLE THIN-FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC TECHNOLOGIES IN BUILDING INTEGRATION

Abstract

New PV technologies that may advance new innovations, which may be developed into building integrated photovoltaics, might be found in flexible thin film solar cells. The use of flexible substrates offers new possibilities for the application of solar cells for building integration. Flexible cells are very thin and lightweight, which makes them also more flexible in use than rigid cells. One of the most important advantages of flexible solar cells is the potential to reduce production costs. Development of photovoltaic thin film modules ensures a satisfying flexibility of the surface, and the possibility to design appropriate shapes. In a past few years producers offered various products and new ways to integrate lightweight, flexible solar modules into buildings to achieve cost-effective and high-performance solar power.