photovoltaic solar cells
Two dominant types of modules used in approximately 85% of installations are crystalline silicon based. The photovoltaic solar cells used in the construction of these modules are comprised of monocrystalline cells, using a more efficient more expensive manufacturing process or polycrystalline cells also known as multicrystalline, a less efficient less expensive process. Companies have substantially increased the efficiency and lowered the manufacturing cost of these traditional cells but have failed to eliminate the rigid frames that enclose the silicon wafers and the installation limitations they present.