You may have heard of thin film types of solar panels. They are a newer type of solar panel and less frequently used for homes. But they are growing in popularity.
The thin film panel gets its name from how it’s produced. Layers of semiconductor materials (silicon, cadium telluride, and copper indium gallium selenide) are rolled out as a film on a surface.
Thin film solar panels tend be less efficient than crystalline solar panels, and it requires a lot of roof space. They also tend to degrade more quickly, so companies may offer shorter warranties to homeowners.
But thin film is also inexpensive and more flexible than crystalline solar cells. They can be manufactured into shingles. So for those who don’t like the appearance of solar panels on a roof, thin film is a good alternative. There may be local solar rebate incentives for installing these types of solar panels.
Keep in mind that solar manufacturing is a very competitive field. Researchers keep coming up with ways to make solar cells more efficient. The latest technologies use solar inks, dyes, mirrors, and plastics.