Silicon photovoltaic modules: A brief history of the first 50 years

The history of silicon terrestrial module evolution over the last 50 years is briefly reviewed. Key technical developments that occurred over a rapid evolutionary period between 1975 and 1985 are identified. Information is included on improvements in both the energy conversion efficiency and prices of commercial modules over the 50-year timeframe. Copyright (c) 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.