Released on = May 3, 2007, 4:33 am

Press Release Author = Shushmul Maheshwari

Industry = Electronics

Press Release Summary = Efficiency of PV systems could improve with 3-Dimensional
solar cells, as they are expected to reduce their mechanical complexity, weight, and
size.

Press Release Body = Inimitable 3-Dimensional solar cells, which capture almost all
light that hits them, may boost PV (Photovoltaic) systems' efficiency while cutting
down its mechanical complexity, weight, and size.

The mechanism behind new 3-D (3-Dimensional) solar cells is that they seize photons
coming from sun rays through a string of tiny "tower" structures. These structures
have a close resemblance to skyscrapers buildings in the grid of city streets.

\"Our goal is to harvest every last photon that is available to our cells,\" as per
Jud Ready, senior research engineer for Electro-Optical Systems Laboratory at GTRI
(Georgia Tech Research Institute). Azonano published the statement of Ready on April
17, 2007. \"By capturing more of the light in our 3D structures, we can use much
smaller photovoltaic arrays. On a satellite or other spacecraft, that would mean
less weight and less space taken up with the PV system.\"

Near term applications can use the cells for powering spacecraft. By allowing
efficiency enhancements in PV coating materials, the cells may also transform the
way in which solar cells are made for an extensive range of applications.

\"We have demonstrated that we can extract electrons using this approach,\" said
Ready. \"Now we need to get a good baseline to see where we compare to existing
materials, how to optimize this and what\'s needed to advance this technology.\"

There're numerous hurdles in the way of commercial production of new cells, for
instance, ability of these cells in surviving the 'launch and operation' in space
needs to be confirmed before their implementation in such applications. Also,
production techniques need to upgrade from the 2-inch laboratory prototype at
present.

RNCOS report "Photovoltaics - A high potential market opportunity (2005-2010)"
notifies, "In spite of the high cost of photovoltaic modules there's been
significant investment, particularly in developed countries, on R&D in photovoltaic.
Over the past decade, PV industry grew at an annual rate of 25-30% and this growth
will be further sustained by innovations in this sector, such as 3-Dimensional solar
cells.\"

Key issues analyzed in this report include: opportunities that exist in the
Photovoltaic industry, impact of the government support programs on the overall
industry, various application areas for PV technology, potential emerging
photovoltaic markets, drivers for photovoltaic market, etc.

About RNCOS E-Services Pvt Ltd.:

RNCOS, incorporated in the year 2002, is an industry research firm. It has a team of
industry experts who analyze data collected from credible sources. They provide
industry insights and analysis that helps corporations to take timely and accurate
business decision in today\'s globally competitive environment.

For more information visit: http://www.rncos.com/Report/IM031.htm
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Web Site = http://www.rncos.com

Contact Details = RNCOS E-Services Pvt Ltd.
Shushmul Maheshwari
Head of Business Development
29, 1st Floor, Patparganj Industrial Area, Delhi 92
91-11-4214-1229
info@rncos.com