What is the efficiency of crystalline silicon solar cells?

Commercially, the efficiency for mono-crystalline silicon solar cells is in the range of 16–18% (Outlook, 2018). Together with multi-crystalline cells, crystalline silicon-based cells are used in the largest quantity for standard module production, representing about 90% of the world's total PV cell production in 2008 (Outlook, 2018).

What are crystalline silicon solar cells?

During the past few decades, crystalline silicon solar cells are mainly applied on the utilization of solar energy in large scale, which are mainly classified into three types, i.e., mono-crystalline silicon, multi-crystalline silicon and thin film, respectively .

How long do crystalline silicon solar cells last?

The first crystalline silicon based solar cell was developed almost 40 years ago, and are still working properly. Most of the manufacturing companies offer the 10 years or even longer warranties, on the crystalline silicon solar cells.

Will crystalline silicon technology continue to dominate the photovoltaic market?

Many analysts expect the past and present domination of the photovoltaic market by crystalline silicon technology to continue into the indefinite future. The theoretical limiting efficiency of the crystalline silicon solar cell under non-concentrating sunlight is about 29% .

Which crystalline material is used in solar cell manufacturing?

Multi and single crystalline are largely utilized in manufacturing systems within the solar cell industry. Both crystalline silicon wafers are considered to be dominating substrate materials for solar cell fabrication.

Is crystalline silicon the future of solar technology?

Except for niche applications (which still constitute a lot of opportunities), the status of crystalline silicon shows that a solar technology needs to go over 22% module efficiency at a cost below US$0.2 W −1 within the next 5 years to be competitive on the mass market.