Eschew Obfuscation

Cheap Solar PV

Posted by Max Dunn Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:52:00 GMT

Prices of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have come down drastically in the last few years. Many solar modules can now be purchased for less than $2 per watt. There has been some speculation that these low prices are due to a glut of solar capacity that is causing manufacturers to sell below their cost. However, a tidbit in a Pike Research blog entry revealed this:

First Solar’s 11.2% efficient modules cost $0.76/W to make according to company reports, and total manufacturing cost of c-Si modules produced by the most competitive companies has plunged to about $1.20.

So in actuality, the solar manufacturers can still make a healthy profit by selling their modules at $2 per watt. Let’s hope that prices comes down even further!