This research delves into third generation photovoltaics such as DSSCs, hybrid PVs, organic PVs etc. The changing dynamics such as the performance, efficiency, cost of manufacturing, scalability etc, of the third generation dynamics triggered by R&D initiatives forms the basis of analysis.

Emergence of New PV Products Promotes Widespread Use of Solar Power and Expands Market

Propelled by aggressive R&D activities, third generation PVs are poised to take a huge leap forward. The exploratory mass production of DSSC-powered consumer durables is likely to alter the future course of research in this segment. Some of the first commercial third generation products are DSSC-powered backpacks, mobile phones, and so on. Several developers are working to take advantage of DSSCs’ ability to power various non-grid-based lighting applications. "G24 Innovations, one of the DSSC manufacturers, has recently announced its mass scale production of DSSC modules to a Hong Kong-based consumer electronics bag manufacturer," notes the analyst of this research service. "The PV panels will be integrated with consumer durables such as backpacks; these panels harvest energy when used outdoors and repower mobile electronic devices such as mobile phones, e-books, cameras, and portable light emitting diode (LED) lighting systems." Sony has developed a DSSC-powered lantern, while Corus and Konarka are experimenting with their products in roof integrated photovoltaics (RIPV) applications.

There are many formidable challenges to overcome by the manufacturers of organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices. Topping the list is the power conversion efficiency. Though the performance shown under standard test conditions in laboratories is satisfying, it cannot be the sole parameter to consider large-scale production. Some of the fundamental issues that must be addressed are bandgap, interfaces, and charge transport. If these bottlenecks are dealt with, the prospects of gaining a better share of the commercial market will be enhanced. The optimum power conversion efficiency (PCE) values are yet to be achieved because the methods to allow morphology control and the principles that underpin them are still being heavily researched upon. Many researchers have traditionally avoided non-aqueous dispersions containing inorganic nanoparticles and hydrophobic polymers. Depletion aggregation is a barrier in optimizing morphologies for the nanocomposite photoactive layers. "There are many methodologies followed in various R&D organizations in improving the performance of a third generation photovoltaic cell such as a hybrid polymer solar cell," says the analyst. "One of the possible ways of improvising could be to enable moderately large nanorods to be distributed within hole transporting polymer films without using methods that result in the nanoparticles being encapsulated by a non-conducting layer." Studies show that zinc oxide (ZnO) dispersions reveal that co-solvent compositions could be used to control the interfacial structure and improve nanoparticle dispersion. Research on phase diagrams for the nanoparticle, polymers, and co-solvent dispersions for hybrid polymer solar cell systems could help improve solar cells.

As concerns over energy savings escalate, several initiatives have been undertaken to promote a greener environment. Solar PVs are receiving significant attention in terms of investments from government and private sectors. Numerous joint development programs have been launched to expand the capabilities of current generation PV technologies as well as next generation PV. Higher efficiency, enhanced stability, extended lifetime, reduced cost and material performance are some of the core areas of research for the joint ventures pursued by both government and private organizations. Focus on optimization of the production process, prototype development, effective encapsulation, large-area, and large-scale manufacturing, as well as streamlining distribution will put the market on the fast track to progress.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary
  Research Overview
       Research Snapshot 
       Key Findings
  Scope and Methodology
       Research Scope
       Research Methodology

Strategic Assessment of the Industry Environment
  Evaluation of PV Technologies
       First and Second Generation PV Technologies
       Third Generation PV Technologies
       Existing Applications
  R&D Portfolio Analysis
       Research Orientation and Portfolio
       R&D Budgetary Analysis
  Environmental Analysis
       Key Technical and Business Challenges
       Key Market Needs 

Industry Best Practices and Strategic Insights
  Industry Initiatives
       Assessment of Partnerships/Alliances
       R&D Success--Key Performance Indicators
       Strategic R&D Pipeline
  Strategic Evaluation of R&D Portfolio
       Sneak Preview of the AHP Tree
       Insights from AHP 

Patents; Contacts; Appendix
  Patents and Contacts
       Key Patents
       Key Corporate Contacts 
       Key Academic Contacts 
     Appendix
          Appendix A1: Analytical Hierarchy Process
          Appendix A2: AHP Process and Computations - Level 0 and Level 1 Criteria
          Appendix A3: AHP Process and Computation--Alternatives

Decision Support Database
     Decision Support Database Tables 
          Global Total Electricity Installed Capacity (2004 to 2014)
          Global Total Electricity Generation (2004 to 2014)
          Global Net Electricity Consumption (2004 to 2014)
          Global Growth Rate of Electricity Consumption (2004 to 2014)