Cadmium Telluride thin-film array, fixed ground-mount
Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) replaces silicon as the active photovoltaic material in this array. This is a thin-film technology, and the active material is deposited in a thin layer on the panel’s substrate.
Less photoelectric material is consumed in the production of thin-film panels, which can allow lower manufacturing costs. The manufacture of CdTe thin-film panels has the potential to be a simpler process than for some thin-films, which could also lead to lower costs.
CdTe panels have a lower efficiency than some thin-film technologies, meaning more panels are needed for a given output. However, CdTe performs better in some solar conditions, as this photovoltaic material can absorb light at a lot of different energy levels. CdTe also performs well in hot conditions.
As a new technology, research is continuing to improve the performance of CdTe panels and to refine the manufacturing process.
Phoenix Solar plans, builds and operates large photovoltaic plants and is a specialist wholesaler for complete power plants, solar panels and accessories.
| Electricity produced (annual): | 10.9 MWh* |
|---|---|
| System size: | 6.7 kW |
| Array area: | 69.12 m² |
| Number of panels: | 96 |
| Panel efficiency: | 10% |
| Panel type: | First Solar FS-270 |
| Panel rated output: | 70 W |
| Inverter size, type: | 7 kW, SMA SMC 7000HV |
| Array Orientation: | True North, at 25º |
*This figure is based on an assumption of 1.622 MWh annually, per kWp of installed solar panels. This may prove to be a conservative estimate for Alice Springs