Pros
Solar will power the future. First Solar Inc (FS) is still the largest PV modules manufacturer in USA
Cons
With mono PERK technology ramping up, Si PV will outperform CdTe-based thin film modules by both conversion efficiency and cost. FS management relies that efficiency will be over 19% by 2019, but the significantly enlarged area of modules from series 6 will bring a lot of uncertainty, principally suspected concerns associated with manufacturing processes non-uniformity.. Furthermore, the scientific approach and methods previously dominated in R&D to boost efficiency in FS are currently almost entirely replaced by chaotic empirical trials. The implemented superstrate CdTe technology imposes a lot of technical limitations by itself, particularly related to processing temperatures and doping effectiveness. Hazard related issues to Cd require the development and implementation of a specific recycling technology, which is also adding to the cost. Regarding, FS modules are inappropriate for residential and building integrated PV markets.
