Thin-Film Solar Cells for Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Systems

The global temperature increase has posed urgent challenges, with buildings accountable for as much as 40% of CO2 emissions, and their decarbonization is critical to meet the net-zero target by 2050. Solar photovoltaics present a promising trajectory, especially through building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPVs), where thin-film technologies can be used to replace traditional building materials. This article critically examined the development of thin-film solar cells for BIPVs, including their working mechanisms, material structures, and efficiency improvements in various generations. The discussion underscored that thin-film technologies, including CdTe and CIGS, had noticeably shorter energy payback times between 0.8 and 1.5 years compared to crystalline silicon modules that took 2 to 3 years, thus promising quicker recovery of energy and higher sustainability values. Whereas certain materials posed toxicity and environmental concerns, these were discovered to be surmountable through sound material selection and manufacturing innovation. The conclusions highlighted that the integration of lower material usage, high efficiency potential, and better energy payback performance placed thin-film BIPVs as an extremely viable option for mitigating lifecycle emissions. In summary, the review emphasized the critical role of thin-film solar technologies in making possible the large-scale implementation of BIPVs to drive the world toward net-zero emissions at a faster pace.