PV Gap

Clara Said:

Photovoltaic laminates?

We Answered:

I'm not aware of any serious installations using the type of laminates mentioned.

You can search for solar roofing tiles or roofing materials, and there are products with a similar idea.

In general, silicon thin film has historically had problems. It may be cheap, but it doesn't last. While a conventional crystalline silicon under glass panel can last for 20 or 25 years at least, the thin film of the type shown might last 3 or 4. For one thing, it's a flexible plastic-type material that is stuck onto the roof with adhesive. Over years exposed to the elements, either the plastic degrades, or the adhesive degrades.

Also note that for the entire roof that they covered, the output is "only" 2 kW. Conventional crystalline silicon would provide that power with only 1/2 to 1/3 the area.

The company in the video is Energy Conversion Devices (stock symbol ENER). You can get more information on their web page. Perhaps they conquered the degradation problem. The duration of the warranty on their product should be a good indicator of how long the company thinks it will last.

Willie Said:

How can I build my own photovoltaic cell(s)?

We Answered:

Although Allan's link will produce a photocell useful for detecting light, I believe you're looking for something that can produce some usable power. Here's a link for using crushed berries and titanium dioxide ( a common white pigment used for paint) to make solar cells:

http://mhest.com/spotlight/green/article…

Some more googling for these dye sensitized cells, Gratzel cells, will yield some useful information. Plus you can easily make them at home!