Q-Cells in Germany is moving faster to industrialize the production of crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells – 150 million in 2008. They are projecting to double their production in 2009. Their cost per watt is unmatched among PV manufacturers due to their scale and low production costs. They have also invested in thin-film technology, through a spin-off company called Calyxo.
An emerging leader of thin-film technology is Arizona-based First Solar. That company is producing cadmium-telluride panels at a reported cost of $1.14 per watt.