$1/W Photovoltaic Systems

This white paper has been published by the US Department of Energy (DOE) to stimulate a dialogue about technology pathways to achieve a $1/watt photovoltaic solar energy system.

The white paper highlights the DOE's estimation that a $1/watt installed photovoltaic solar energy system - equivalent to five or six cents/kWh - would make solar without additional subsidies and would be competitive with the wholesale rate of electricity in the US.

The white paper contains initial ideas on how to achieve significant reduction in the cost of modules, power electronics and the balance of system / installation.

The paper discusses the objectives required to be met in order to make a $1/watt system commercially viable and scalable to meet long-term energy needs.