[APS] Solar Power

David Carlson (from BP Solar) gave a talk titled, The Status and Outlook for the Photovoltaics Industry. His presentation slides are also available online.

Some random facts I found interesting

• The photovoltaic industry has been growing at 35% per year.


• This year, the PV industry will use as much or more silicon than the semiconductor industry. This may cause problems with the growth curve, as suppliers ramp up to supply the PV industry.


• The current cost per kWh is $0.18. Less than half of the cost is due to the PV module. (Slide 30)


• Given the cost of PV electricity, the cost of conventional electricity, and the availability of sun, Spain is almost to the point of cost-competetive PV electricity. (Slide 31)