Just a little more explanation regarding retrofitting/installation of solar cells - for future reference:
Lets say we look at a single 1000 Watt,(1 kW) module.
With 10% efficient panels in full sunlight you need about 10 square meters of solar cells. You also need the cabling and power conversion equipment to handle the 1 kW
You can't just replace the panels with a 10 square meter 50% efficient BLG unit as the built in cabling and power equipment will be rated to handle only the 1 kW. You can only put in 2 square meters of the new cells. The only thing you will gain for your money is some free space.
However, if you want to increase the power output to say 5 kW, you have two choices. Add another 40 square meters of 10% panels plus another 4 kW worth of cable and power equipment OR Replace the existing panels with 50% efficient BLG panels. You will save space but you will still need to pay for another 4 kW worth of cable and power equipment.
For most solar installations space is not a big issue, but cost will be.
The real driver to capture this market will be $/watt. And for the BLG panels that is still an unknown.
Cheers
BLG Price at posting:
31.5¢ Sentiment: LT Buy Disclosure: Held
