Photovoltaic Incubator
In late March 2007, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released a "PV Incubator" funding opportunity led by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory for developing prototype photovoltaic (PV) components and systems. The emphasis is on barriers to entry for 2010 commercialization. Additional PV Incubator funding opportunities will be provided about every 9 months.
Project Name:
PV Incubator
FOA #:
This solicitation is an NREL-led funding opportunity that opens approximately every 9 months. See NREL Current Solicitations for more details.
Project Description:
The PV Incubator awards target research and development of PV systems and component prototypes with full functionality, produced in pilot-scale operations. Prototype technologies are expected to have already completed proof-of-concept for new manufacturing processes, either through contractor equipment, the NREL Process Development and Integration Laboratory facilities, or other appropriate facilities.
2007 Total DOE/Partner Cost Share (in USD and %):
$27.2 M / $65.9 M (29% / 71%)
Goals:
- Explore the commercial potential of new manufacturing processes and products
- Foster innovation and growth in the domestic PV industry
- Establish an efficient and cyclic funding opportunity
- Expand and diversify domestic "market-ready" PV technologies
2008 Awardees:
Announcement pending for August 2008
2007 Awardees:
- AVA Solar (CO)
- Blue Square Energy (MD)
- CaliSolar (CA)
- Enfocus Engineering (CA)
- MicroLink Devices, Inc. (IL)
- PlexTronics (PA)
- PrimeStar Solar (CO)
- Solaria (CA)
- SolFocus (CA)
- SoloPower (CA)
Publications:
- 2007 PV Incubator Awards (PDF 742 KB) Download Adobe Reader.
- PV Incubator Fact Sheet (PDF 434 KB)