Report Highlights
Global shipments of photovoltaic cells/modules reached 11,102 megawatts in 2010, and are expected to reach 55,621 megawatts by 2015, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38%.
Report Scope
The scope of this study encompasses the major PV technologies monocrystalline silicon, multicrystalline silicon, thin films (e.g., amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, copper indium diselenide), compound semiconductor materials (e.g., gallium arsenide) and emerging approaches such as nanostructured films, dye-sensitized solar cells and organic technologies. BCC Research analyzes each technology, examines its current and potential efficiency, assesses the current market status of each, examines its future market impact, and presents shipments of PV cells and their values for 2009, 2010 and 2015. Various technical issues are discussed and a thorough economic analysis of each technology and its impact on future growth is presented.
In this report, we analyze the PV industry on a global basis, including manufacturing capacity and consumption by various regional markets. We examine government funding and support, industry involvement, standards, the environmental impact of solar energy, and the impact of incentives to use PV. We also discuss the potential for applications—both grid-connected and standalone. Projections of cell and module shipments by major applications are also presented for the 3 years covered in our study.
Analyst Credentials
After a successful career at IBM, Robert H. Moran has written extensively as a research analyst and editor at BCC Research. The topics of his reports range from various deposition technologies, to displays, solar energy and solid-state lighting. Mr. Moran has been writing for BCC Research for more than 20 years. He earned a B. S. Degree in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania.
Related Reports
Track the Latest Global Tariff Developments
In today's fast-paced global economy, tariffs are no longer static—they are dynamic levers shaped by geopolitical realignments, supply chain vulnerabilities, inflationary pressures, and sustainability-driven trade reforms. As governments worldwide recalibrate their trade strategies, businesses are left to navigate a maze of shifting rules, rising costs, and regulatory uncertainty.
Our analysis empowers you with real-time updates and in-depth expert analysis on all facets of global tariff activity. From new trade agreements and sanctions to abrupt tariff hikes and retaliatory duties, we monitor developments across borders, sectors, and industries—so you don't have to.
Whether it's the ongoing U.S.–China trade dynamics, the evolving EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), or the emerging policies in India, ASEAN, and Latin America, we provide full-spectrum coverage. We also track multilateral trade negotiations, World Trade Organization (WTO) rulings, and sector-specific duty structures—ensuring you are always ahead of global trade shifts.
With our analysis, you can stay informed, identify risks, and confidently respond to tariff changes—no matter where you operate.
Ready to see what tariff means for your business?
Consult with our experts or request your custom Tariff Impact Brife today
Stay Informed, Stay Competitive
In today's interconnected and unpredictable global economy, staying ahead of tariff shifts is not just important—it's essential. BCC Research provides decision-makers with trusted, research-driven insights that turn uncertainty into opportunity.
Our in-depth market analysis and trade intelligence help you decode how tariff changes impact your specific sector—manufacturing, healthcare, technology, agriculture, or energy. We break down complex data into actionable knowledge through comprehensive reports, expert commentaries, and sector-focused forecasts.
Our analysis includes:
- Thorough breakdowns of current and proposed tariff policies and how they affect regional and global trade flows.
- Sector-specific implications, helping you understand the strategic impact on sourcing, pricing, and competitiveness.
- Forward-looking insights to support risk management, planning, and response strategies for evolving trade conditions.
With BCC Research, you gain more than just information—you gain clarity and confidence to make well-informed decisions in a volatile trade environment.
Don't let tariffs catch you off guard—let our insights guide your strategy.
Recent Reports
Global White Hydrogen Market
The report provides an analysis of the global market for white hydrogen. Using 2024 as the base year, the report provides estimated market data for 2025 through 2030. The market in this report is segmented into by source, by application, and by region. The report concludes with profiles of the major players in the market.
Renewable Energy Regional Analysis Market: Middle East and North Africa
This report provides an in-depth analysis of the renewable energy market in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, using 2024 as the base year and forecasting trends from 2025 to 2030, with estimations of compound annual growth rates (CAGR).
Electrical Switches: Technologies and Global Markets
The global market for electrical switches is expected to grow from $16.0 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $20.8 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.
2024 Sustainable Energy Research Review
The Energy industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry whose outlook is supposed to rise in the coming years. This report provides a sampling of the types of quantitative market information, analysis and guidance that has been aiding business decision making since the inception of BCC Research in 1971.
Renewable Energy: Technologies and Global Markets
The global market for renewable energy is estimated to increase from $1.3 trillion in 2024 to reach $2.0 trillion by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7% from 2024 through 2029.
Top Trending Reports
Sensors: Technologies and Global Markets
The global market for sensors was valued at $195.1 billion in 2024 and is estimated to increase from $212.5 billion in 2025 to reach $323.3 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7% from 2025 through 2030.
Global Cell Line and Membrane Market
The global market for cell lines and membranes was valued at $5.7 billion in 2024 and is estimated to increase from $6.3 billion in 2025 to reach $11.4 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5% from 2025 through 2030.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Technologies: Global Markets
The global market for water and wastewater treatment technologies is expected to grow from $350.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $591.2 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.0% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.
Global Edge AI Market
The global market for edge AI was valued at $8.7 billion in 2024 and is estimated to increase from $11.8 billion in 2025 to reach $56.8 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 36.9% from 2025 through 2030.
Global Biochip Markets: Microarrays and Lab-on-a-Chip
The global market for biochip was valued at $16.1 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach $27.8 billion by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.6% from 2024 through 2029.
Report Highlights
-
The global market for photovoltaics (PV) will increase from $12.9 billion in 2007 to an estimated $16.1 billion by the end of 2008. It should reach nearly $32.3 billion by 2013 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.9%.
-
The rapid growth of PV will be driven by the global demand for energy of all kinds, the potential problems of climate change, the renewable features of solar energy and improvements in PV technology and materials.
-
Silicon technology, which accounted for about 89% of the market in 2007, will continue to dominate through the end of our forecast period, but will represent only 79% of the market by 2013.
Report Highlights
-
Total shipments of photovoltaic (PV) modules were estimated at 973.1 megawatts in 2004 and are expected to rise at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 23.8% to reach 2,783.1 megawatts by 2009.
-
Silicon technology accounted for approximately 90% of the PV market in 2004 and will continue to dominate through the end of the forecast period. Multicrystalline silicon represents the highest volume.
-
Recent improvements in their efficiency and the advent of flexible substrates, will provide thin film technology with continued growth.
-
New technologies, such as dye-sensitized solar cells and modules made by nanotechnology processes, are projected to account for 19.7 megawatts by 2009.
Report Highlights
-
Total worldwide shipments of photovoltaic (PV) modules reached 393.8 megawatts (MW) in 2001 and are projected to grow at an average annual rate (AAGR) of 21% to 1,021.5 MW by 2006.
-
Their value was estimated at $2,067.5 million in 2001. That amount is expected to increase at a lower AAGR of 12.5% to $3,728.5 million by 2006, as costs are expected to decrease.
-
Polycrystalline silicon is the highest volume PV technology, and shipments are projected to grow at a 20.6% AAGR to reach 450.8 MW by 2006.
-
Single crystal silicon shipments were 161.5 MW in 2001 and are projected to rise at an AAGR of 19.8% to 398.4 MW by 2006.
-
The smaller market for silicon film deposited on more flexible substrates is expected to grow at an AAGR of 21.2% to 19.5 MW by 2006.
-
Thin films will finally exhibit significant growth during the period, rising at an AAGR of 26.3% to 152.8 MW by 2006.
Become A Member
BCC Research offers a comprehensive library of reports, granting members unlimited access to data, insights, and market intelligence for informed business decisions, while actively supporting members in their evolving journeys and prioritizing high-quality, relevant topics based on continuous engagement with the research community.
Find Out MoreCustom Consulting
BCC Research emphasizes the importance of organizations leveraging highly customized market insights aligned with specific strategic business objectives through direct engagement with primary sources and proprietary forecasting models for profitable decision-making in maximizing growth opportunities and minimizing risks.
Customize NowScorecard
The Venture Scorecard provides commercialization offices and decision makers with expert analysis, offering strategic insights crucial for aligning objectives with market realities at various stages of commercializing new products or evaluating investment opportunities, from opportunity assessment to growth planning.
Find Out MoreInnovation Spotlight
Our industry experts offer strategic guidance to maximize the market potential of commercialized products, patents, and IP by providing insights into market trends, competitive dynamics, and effective positioning, using the Innovation Spotlight service for enhanced exposure to thought leaders and the wider community.
Find Out More