During the past two decades, the photovoltaic (PV) market has changed from mainly off-grid applications with 70% of the market in 1992 to grid-connected applications with 95% of the market in 2008. While still a minor percentage of the global generation portfolio, PV technology embodies a transformation from the traditional energy market. Short- and long-term investments require an understanding of the PV technologies from the manufacturing process through deployment.

The Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA), an educational and research non-profit focused on helping utilities integrate solar into their operations, has released its “Photovoltaic Technology Characterization Review.” The review provides an analysis of technical metrics across the commercialized PV materials, including manufacturing processes, efficiency and performance, market applications and environmental characteristics.

“U.S. photovoltaic economics are affected by wide-ranging climatic, policy and financial diversity,” said SEPA Technical Director Christy Herig. “Utilities and their customers can use technology characteristics to minimize risk and insure long-term bankability.”

“Utilities are increasingly interested in learning about these new technologies and the direct and indirect trade-offs when making technology choices and partnering with companies on projects,” said SEPA President and CEO Julia Hamm.

The report serves as a reference for comparison and understanding and is free to members. Non-members may download the Executive Summary or purchase the full report.

For more information, visit www.solarelectricpower.org.