Photovoltaic systems technology, cost and performance to 1995

The US photovoltaic industry (PV) installed 15 MW utility connected systems in 1983-84 at installed costs of $10-$12/Wp. Power conditioners that connect the PV direct current source to the utility alternating current lines cost $0.60/W with efficiencies of 94-97%, harmonic distortion less than 3%, and unity power factors. 5 MW of Fresnel lens, 100X concentrators using 16% silicon cells are installed at United Energy Corporation's Borrego Springs and Barstow, CA sites. Virtually all of this grid-connected systems experience has been stimulated by the US and California tax credits. Extension and expansion of the federal tax credits would allow the world PV market to grow to 2000 MW in 1995, with profitable module prices of $2/W. The US will remain dominant in the world market with a 50% market share. If US tax credits expire in 1985, the market will grow to only 400 MW, Japan will dominate with 65-70% market share, and module prices will only drop to $3/W. 9 tables.