The value of organic photovoltaic solar cells as a direct power source for consumer electronics

Abstract

Which market segment should organic photovoltaic (OPV) technology target to achieve a self-sustaining level? In literature, a historical PV development starting point is provided in the consumer electronics market. This research subsequently investigates the requirements to be fulfilled for a consumer electronic device directly powered by solar cells. Furthermore, in a second phase, we will also link consumer preferences to what is technically feasible with OPV. To answer this dual research question, a survey based method called choice experiments (CE) is used. In our setting, respondents are asked to choose the most preferred solar cell from several alternatives. Solar cells are represented by pre-specified levels on pre-specified attributes. Afterwards, from every respondent’s set of choices, attribute weights can be estimated via maximum likelihood estimation. The obtained weights signal the importance (relative size) and influence (sign) on consumers’ preferences. Having this information, in a next step, a match can be made between highly valued scenarios and OPV. In our study 250 respondents chosen randomly across the Flemish region were surveyed. Respondents were asked to choose between 4 alternatives described by the attributes: price, efficiency, lifetime, esthetics and integratability on 8 different occasions. Results allow drawing the following conclusions: (1) efficiency is the most important attribute; (2) lifetime is the least important attribute; (3) price increases have a negative effect.