-- Large players are better positioned to capitalize on bundled non- active technologies. Diversified suppliers and large crystalline silicon (x- Si) incumbents, such as DuPont or Q-Cells, have the means to bundle multiple non-active technologies into a single platform, and derive a greater impact on margin costs. -- Thin-film modules see greater margin potential, but longer development cycles. Non-active materials comprise 36% to 48% of standard thin-film module manufacturing costs. New entrants with improved non-active technologies will have a greater edge in thin film than in x-Si. The caveat: longer development cycles. -- As modules move to higher efficiencies, non-active materials make more sense. As module efficiencies improve, so does the value proposition of large-area AR and TCO coatings. With higher efficiency, a given cost per square meter translates into a lower cost per watt at high efficiency."There are lots of new non-active materials knocking on the door of large-scale commercialization," said Schmidtke. "But new technologies need to clearly lower cost-per-watt to win." "Driving Down Solar Costs: Non-active Material Opportunities," is part of the Lux Solar Intelligence service. Clients subscribing to this service receive continuous research on solar industry market and technology trends, ongoing technology scouting reports and proprietary data points in the weekly Lux Research Solar Journal, and on-demand inquiry with Lux Research analysts. About Lux Research Lux Research provides strategic advice and on-going intelligence for emerging technologies. Leaders in business, finance and government rely on us to help them make informed strategic decisions. Through our unique research approach focused on primary research and our extensive global network, we deliver insight, connections and competitive advantage to our clients. Visit www.luxresearchinc.com for more information.
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