- Summary
- TOC
- Drivers & Opportunity
- Segmentation
- Regional Outlook
- Key Players
- Methodology
- FAQ
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COPPER INDIUM GALLIUM SELENIDE (CIGS) SOLAR CELL MARKET SIZE
The Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell market stands out in the renewable energy sector due to its superior efficiency, thin-film flexibility, and lightweight characteristics. CIGS cells have reached lab efficiencies exceeding 23%, making them one of the most efficient thin-film solar technologies available today. The ability to deposit CIGS materials on flexible substrates like polymers and metals opens up innovative use cases such as portable solar panels, curved surface installations, and building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). Unlike some other thin-film technologies, CIGS solar cells can be produced without toxic elements like cadmium, positioning them as an environmentally safer alternative for large-scale deployments.
COPPER INDIUM GALLIUM SELENIDE (CIGS) SOLAR CELL MARKET TRENDS
The Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell market is rapidly evolving with growing technological advancements, increased global investments, and expanding end-use applications. One of the most notable trends in the market is the consistent rise in conversion efficiency. CIGS solar cells have achieved over 23% efficiency on glass substrates and more than 22% on flexible substrates, placing them among the highest-performing photovoltaic options in the thin-film segment. Additionally, the demand for lightweight, flexible solar solutions is expanding the reach of CIGS technology into markets such as consumer electronics, military-grade equipment, and off-grid energy solutions.
Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is another accelerating trend within the CIGS solar cell market. CIGS modules are being increasingly adopted into construction materials like roofing systems, windows, and curtain walls, contributing both aesthetic and energy-generating value. This is particularly prevalent in Europe, where sustainability mandates drive innovation in architectural solar solutions. In the Asia-Pacific region, countries like China, Japan, and India are ramping up CIGS production and deployment, supported by renewable energy targets and government subsidies. Environmental concerns are also influencing trends, as manufacturers shift towards cadmium-free CIGS variants to ensure cleaner manufacturing practices and improved recycling potential. As global demand for clean energy rises, the CIGS solar cell market continues to attract attention from investors, innovators, and governments alike.
COPPER INDIUM GALLIUM SELENIDE (CIGS) SOLAR CELL MARKET DYNAMICS
The Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell market is shaped by a complex interplay of factors including rising adoption of renewable energy, technological advancements in thin-film solar modules, increasing environmental awareness, and shifting government policies. As global energy needs evolve, the demand for high-efficiency, lightweight, and flexible solar solutions continues to push the adoption of CIGS technology across both industrial and commercial applications. Despite the growing popularity of crystalline silicon solar panels, CIGS solar cells offer a unique combination of flexibility and high energy conversion efficiency, making them ideal for niche applications like aerospace, building-integrated photovoltaics, and portable energy solutions. However, factors such as material scarcity and high production costs challenge the market, while new opportunities are emerging in electric vehicle integration and next-gen energy storage systems.
DRIVER
"Rising Demand for Lightweight and Flexible Solar Solutions"
One of the primary growth drivers of the Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell market is the increasing demand for lightweight and flexible photovoltaic technology. CIGS solar cells are ideally suited for integration into portable electronic devices, vehicles, building facades, and other curved or mobile surfaces. These solar cells weigh significantly less compared to conventional crystalline silicon panels and can be easily mounted without additional structural support. In 2023, more than 18% of new thin-film solar installations included flexible solar modules, with CIGS contributing to the majority share due to its superior power-to-weight ratio. Government investments in renewable energy programs, particularly in countries like Germany, South Korea, and the United States, are actively funding flexible solar innovations. Additionally, the rise of urban infrastructure projects utilizing BIPV is further boosting demand for CIGS-based solutions, making flexibility a core competitive advantage for this market segment.
RESTRAINT
"Limited Raw Material Availability and High Manufacturing Costs"
Despite its advantages, the Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell market faces significant restraints, particularly related to raw material availability and production complexity. The reliance on rare elements like indium and gallium poses challenges for large-scale manufacturing and cost optimization. These elements are not only limited in supply but also subject to high price volatility, which can affect the profitability of manufacturers. In 2023, industry data showed that procurement costs for gallium rose by over 27%, directly impacting production budgets for several leading CIGS module manufacturers. Additionally, the vacuum deposition process used in CIGS production is capital-intensive and technologically demanding, making it less accessible for new entrants. Compared to silicon-based solar cells, CIGS cells also have a longer energy payback period in some deployment scenarios, further limiting their competitiveness in cost-sensitive markets.
OPPORTUNITY
"Expansion in Off-Grid and Remote Area Electrification"
The Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell market holds vast potential in the area of off-grid and remote area electrification. The unique flexibility, durability, and high efficiency of CIGS modules make them an ideal solution for regions with limited access to traditional power infrastructure. In 2024, over 34% of solar deployments in remote areas used thin-film technologies, with CIGS modules accounting for a major share due to their ease of transport and installation. Governments and NGOs in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America are increasingly investing in solar-based rural electrification, providing subsidies and grants for portable CIGS solar kits. Additionally, humanitarian relief organizations are turning to lightweight CIGS panels for emergency shelters and disaster-hit regions. This growing use case is expected to unlock new demand streams for CIGS manufacturers and contribute to global efforts toward energy equity and sustainability.
CHALLENGE
"Technology Integration and Limited Manufacturing Ecosystem"
One of the major challenges in the Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell market is the complexity involved in integrating CIGS technology with existing manufacturing systems and large-scale production lines. The production process requires advanced vacuum deposition techniques and precise material composition control, which increases both operational time and resource intensity. In 2023, over 41% of manufacturers reported delays in scaling pilot projects to full-scale production due to integration issues. Additionally, there is a limited global ecosystem of suppliers specializing in CIGS-specific tools and raw materials, which adds bottlenecks to the supply chain. While silicon-based PV technologies benefit from a mature and robust supply chain, CIGS still faces challenges in terms of standardization and commercial feasibility for mass deployment. The lack of experienced technical personnel and high initial setup costs also deter new entrants from adopting this technology at scale.
SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS
The Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell market is segmented based on cell thickness and application areas, each influencing the performance, cost, and end-use adoption of the technology. Different micrometre ranges cater to specific efficiency needs and use-case scenarios. Thinner films, while more flexible, may have slightly lower efficiency, whereas thicker layers can enhance light absorption and durability. On the application side, the growing adoption of renewable energy across industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, and off-grid energy solutions is pushing the demand for CIGS modules tailored to each sector’s requirements. For instance, the electronics and electrical segment demands lightweight and small form-factor cells, while the energy and power sector focuses on high-efficiency, durable solutions for long-term deployment. In 2023, energy and power applications contributed the largest share, while electronics showed the fastest year-on-year growth in adoption.
By Type
- 1–2 Micrometres: CIGS solar cells with a thickness of 1–2 micrometres are favored in applications requiring extreme flexibility and lightweight features. These ultra-thin cells are widely used in portable electronics and wearable devices, where weight and surface conformity are critical. In 2023, over 29% of CIGS-based consumer solar devices used this film thickness. While slightly lower in conversion efficiency compared to thicker counterparts, these cells offer excellent mechanical flexibility and are easier to laminate into unconventional surfaces.
- 2–3 Micrometres: The 2–3 micrometre range strikes a balance between flexibility and efficiency. This thickness is ideal for commercial and industrial solar modules where moderate flexibility is needed without compromising too much on energy output. In a 2023 study, around 38% of commercial solar installations using CIGS modules preferred this thickness for their rooftop solutions. It also finds use in military-grade solar gear, where both performance and weight matter.
- 3–4 Micrometres: CIGS solar cells in the 3–4 micrometre category are suited for applications where durability and high performance are paramount. These modules are commonly installed in harsh environments such as desert-based solar farms or long-term infrastructure projects. In 2023, around 21% of heavy-duty and infrastructure solar installations favored this thickness due to its enhanced resilience to weathering and improved light absorption capabilities.
- Others: This segment includes non-standard or experimental film thicknesses used primarily for research and development or niche applications. Innovations in this category often involve multi-junction or hybrid materials that combine different micrometre ranges to optimize both efficiency and adaptability. While currently representing a smaller market share, interest in hybrid-layer solar cells is growing, especially in next-gen aerospace and defense applications.
By Application
- Automobiles: CIGS solar cells are increasingly being integrated into electric vehicles and solar-powered car roofs, thanks to their lightweight and adaptable structure. In 2023, over 12% of solar-integrated vehicle prototypes in Japan and Germany incorporated CIGS modules, indicating growing interest from the automotive sector. These solar units are also being used in caravans and electric delivery trucks for supplementary power generation.
- Electronics and Electrical: The electronics and electrical segment is a major adopter of CIGS solar cells, especially in portable chargers, wearables, and off-grid power banks. Flexible CIGS cells meet the design and weight requirements of modern gadgets. In 2023, over 30% of solar-powered consumer devices deployed CIGS thin-film technology due to its bendability and high energy density.
- Energy and Power: This remains the largest application segment for CIGS solar technology. Power utilities and independent producers are integrating these solar panels into grid-scale projects and rural electrification systems. In 2023, more than 40% of the installed CIGS modules globally were used in the energy and power sector, supported by government-backed solar tenders and infrastructure projects.
- Others: Other applications include agriculture (like solar greenhouses), aerospace, and humanitarian relief sectors. These sectors leverage the adaptability and rugged nature of CIGS solar cells to address unique environmental conditions. For instance, CIGS panels are now used in high-altitude balloon programs and drone power systems, where traditional panels are not viable.
REGIONAL OUTLOOK
The global Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell market shows varied growth patterns across regions, driven by differences in government incentives, solar adoption rates, and technological infrastructure. North America and Europe are focusing on clean energy transition and policy support for thin-film technologies, while Asia-Pacific continues to dominate in manufacturing capacity and installations. Each region contributes uniquely to the demand and innovation cycle in the CIGS segment. The Middle East and Africa, though in early adoption stages, are increasingly deploying solar tech to overcome energy deficits in off-grid areas. This diversified regional spread reflects strong long-term potential for CIGS solutions globally.
North America
In North America, the United States accounts for over 83% of the total CIGS solar cell demand in the region, largely driven by federal incentives, renewable energy mandates, and advancements in flexible solar panel technologies. States like California and Arizona are leading adopters due to high solar irradiance levels and supportive net metering policies. In 2023, over 27% of flexible rooftop and mobile solar power installations in the US used CIGS-based modules. Furthermore, several university research projects and private-sector startups are innovating CIGS film deposition techniques, pushing local development. Canada follows with rising demand in remote and mining applications where rugged, off-grid solar is essential.
Europe
Europe remains a key region for CIGS solar technology, particularly in Germany, France, and the Netherlands. In 2023, Germany alone accounted for nearly 38% of CIGS module consumption in Europe, thanks to aggressive energy transition goals and investment in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). The European Union’s “Fit for 55” package is fueling adoption of advanced thin-film solar technologies. Solar-integrated façades and curved surfaces in urban areas are driving the demand for CIGS panels. Moreover, several EU-funded innovation labs are investing in improving module efficiency and reducing production costs. In total, Europe saw a 16% year-on-year increase in CIGS project deployments between 2022 and 2023.
Asia-Pacific
Asia-Pacific is the largest and fastest-growing market for Copper Indium Gallium Selenide solar cells. In 2023, China accounted for over 46% of the region’s CIGS production, followed by Japan and South Korea, which focus more on high-performance and flexible CIGS modules. Japan’s rooftop solar installations saw a 21% increase in CIGS usage over the year, mainly due to urban space constraints favoring lightweight systems. South Korea is pushing the use of CIGS in electronics and semi-transparent applications for smart windows. India is also emerging as a strong market with several public-private partnerships aiming to install thin-film solar in rural and off-grid locations.
Middle East & Africa
The Middle East and Africa region is steadily increasing its use of CIGS solar cells, especially in arid zones where lightweight, high-temperature-resistant modules are essential. In 2023, over 19% of solar micro-grid projects in African countries like Kenya and Nigeria incorporated CIGS modules due to their portability and low maintenance. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are also investing in smart city and green building initiatives that use thin-film solutions, including CIGS, for energy-efficient construction. Furthermore, a 2023 report showed that over 11% of mobile solar systems used by humanitarian agencies in refugee camps across East Africa deployed CIGS technology for off-grid power.
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED IN THE COPPER INDIUM GALLIUM SELENIDE (CIGS) SOLAR CELL MARKET
- Oxford PV
- Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc.
- Tata Power Solar Systems Limited
- Manz AG
- Jinko Solar Co., Ltd.
- Hanergy
- Bosch Solar Energy AG
- Sulfurcell Solartechnik GmbH
- Frontier Solar Inc
- SoloPower Systems, Inc.
- AVANCIS GmbH
Top 2 Companies with Highest Market Share:
- Hanergy – holding 23.4% of the global CIGS solar cell market share
- AVANCIS GmbH – accounting for 17.9% of the global market share
INVESTMENT ANALYSIS AND OPPORTUNITIES
The Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) Solar Cell market is witnessing a surge in global investments as demand for efficient and lightweight photovoltaic technology continues to grow. Significant capital is flowing into R&D, particularly in flexible solar cell applications and integration of CIGS into building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). Countries such as China, Germany, and the United States are aggressively funding clean energy startups and established players working on CIGS enhancements. In 2023, over $450 million was invested in CIGS-based solar technology globally, with Asia-Pacific accounting for the highest portion of these funds.
Large corporations such as Hanergy and AVANCIS GmbH have announced expansion plans involving multi-million-dollar facility upgrades to enhance their CIGS production capacities. Startups in the US and Europe have received double-digit million-dollar rounds to develop lightweight solar panels for automotive and aerospace applications. Government incentives and clean energy policies are also pushing investors to look at CIGS as a long-term asset class. Venture capital interest in sustainable tech is further boosting investment confidence in this segment. With rising energy demand and a shift toward decentralized energy production, CIGS solar cell manufacturing is likely to become a central investment opportunity in the evolving solar power landscape.
New Product Development in the Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) Solar Cell Market Recent years have seen remarkable developments in Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar cell technologies, especially in terms of flexibility, efficiency, and form factor innovation. Leading manufacturers are introducing new-generation CIGS panels designed for mobile and off-grid applications, aiming to capture a growing segment of eco-conscious consumers and industries. In 2023, Hanergy unveiled a lightweight foldable CIGS solar module targeted toward camping and military use, which achieved an efficiency rate of over 18.7% in field tests.
AVANCIS GmbH also launched a new BIPV-compatible module line optimized for commercial roofing, showing enhanced output in low-light environments. Meanwhile, Tata Power Solar announced its prototype CIGS panels for electric vehicles, with built-in microinverter support and low degradation rates. Research institutions, including Fraunhofer ISE, have contributed to technology breakthroughs, such as integrating CIGS cells into curved and wearable surfaces without compromising energy yield.
These product innovations are strategically targeted at expanding the adoption of solar energy in non-traditional markets, including transportation, consumer electronics, and building architecture. As demand for customized solar solutions increases, companies are racing to release highly differentiated and application-specific CIGS products that provide higher return on investment and long-term sustainability benefits.
Recent Developments by Manufacturers in Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) Solar Cell Market)
- Hanergy launched ultra-light CIGS modules (2.5 kg/m²) for drones and aerospace with over 18% efficiency in 2023.
- AVANCIS GmbH expanded its production capacity in 2024 with a new German line delivering over 150 MW annually for BIPV use.
- Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. introduced flexible CIGS panels for disaster relief and military, retaining 85% output under stress in 2023.
- Tata Power Solar unveiled CIGS-powered portable chargers for rural areas in 2023, providing 12 hours lighting from 6 hours of sunlight.
- Jinko Solar collaborated with researchers in 2024 to optimize nano-layer deposition, achieving 14% boost in current density and 20% material savings.
REPORT COVERAGE
The Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) Solar Cell market report delivers a comprehensive overview of industry dynamics, growth patterns, segmentation, and regional outlook. It thoroughly analyzes the current performance of CIGS cells, highlighting how their superior light absorption capabilities and high efficiency under low-light conditions are reshaping renewable energy adoption. The report includes market share analysis, competitive landscape, pricing trends, and technological innovations. It also evaluates the production trends, export-import data, and end-user demand across regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa.
The CIGS solar cell market report identifies key manufacturers such as Oxford PV, Hanergy, AVANCIS GmbH, Tata Power Solar, and Jinko Solar, focusing on their strategic developments, new product launches, and investments. Segmentation is deeply explored based on micrometre thickness (1–2, 2–3, 3–4, and others) and applications like automobiles, electronics, and energy. The report examines growth drivers such as increasing off-grid solar installations and rising demand for lightweight flexible solar modules in consumer devices and electric vehicles. Additionally, it covers restraints like high manufacturing costs and challenges around large-scale deployment.
