PROGRESS COMMERCIALIZING SOLAR-ELECTRIC POWER SYSTEMS

Abstract

▪ Abstract The commercial status of the principal solar electric technologies—photovoltaic and solar thermal—is reviewed. Current and near-term market niches are identified, and projected longer-term markets are explored along with the key strategies for achieving them, including technological breakthroughs, manufacturing developments, economies of scale and mass production, and market creation. Market barriers and public policy impacts on commercialization are discussed.