Dr. Prem Nath , Ascent Solar Sr. Vice President for Production Operations
Ascent Solar Technologies a developer of CIGS thin-film PV announced 5 meter long flexible light weight module on a polyimide substrate with aperture area efficiency of 9.1%
Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. is a developer of thin-film photovoltaic modules with substrate materials that can be more flexible and affordable than most traditional solar panels. Ascent Solar modules can be directly integrated into electronics, military and consumer portable power products, transportation systems, building elements, and space / near-space applications resulting in market differentiated solutions. Ascent Solar is headquartered in Thornton, Colo.
[Paula Mints, Navigant Consulting]:We have to take into consideration that thin films are facing difficult times, as are crystalline technologies. The assumed price advantage (because of assumed lower manufacturing costs) continues to evaporate. In this difficult competitive environment only First Solar, with the photovoltaic industry’s assumed lowest manufacturing costs, can compete. In particular, when First Solar acts as the system integrator and designer as it often does, its module advantage (installing at cost plus transfer costs) renders other technologies non-competitive.
