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 other thin-films, which could also lead to lower costs.
CdTe panels have a lower efficiency than some Silicon based 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.
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Electricity produced (annual): |
11.29 MWh* |
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System size: |
6.96 kW |
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Array area: |
69.12 m² |
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Number of panels: |
96 |
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Panel efficiency: |
10.69 % |
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Panel type: |
First Solar FS-272** |
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Panel rated output: |
72.5 W |
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Inverter size, type: |
7 kW, SMA SMC 7000HV |
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Array orientation: |
True north, at 20º tilt |
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Installation completed: |
3 November 2008 |
*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
** These CdTe Thin Film modules were originally shipped and rated by the manufacturer for installation in Europe, and were supplied and installed to DKASC without the integrator having gained manufacturer consent or approval.