Ascent Solar Technologies (NASDAQ: ASTI) has achieved a remarkable milestone by reaching a record efficiency of 15.7% (AM0) for its thin-film CIGS photovoltaic technology at production scale. Utilizing the Titan™ module, which is approximately one square foot in size, the company is now capable of generating 15.7 watts of power per unit. These modules are ultra-thin, measuring just 0.03mm in thickness and weighing slightly over eight grams, providing an impressive power density of 1960W/kg before encapsulation.
Over the past 18 months, Ascent Solar has consistently demonstrated efficiency improvements, progressing from 11.6 watts in Q3 2023 to the current 15.7 watts in Q2 2025. This advancement is part of the company’s strategic plan for 2025, which aims to enhance material quality and technological efficiency, especially in the space market.
The increase in efficiency represents a significant technological breakthrough, particularly beneficial for applications in space where weight and power generation are critical. The Titan™ module’s ultra-lightweight design, combined with its high power density, positions Ascent Solar as a strong contender for solar solutions in satellite power systems and other spacecraft applications.
Ascent Solar’s achievement of 15.7% efficiency marks a substantial leap forward in lightweight solar technology. The technical progression has been impressive, with consistent improvements reflected in the following efficiency milestones:
– Q3 2023: 11.6 watts
– Q4 2023: 13.3 watts
– Q1 2024: 14.0 watts
– Q2 2025: 15.7 watts
This 35% increase in efficiency in just 21 months showcases exceptional research and development execution.
Traditional rigid silicon panels typically achieve efficiencies ranging from 15% to 22% but come with significantly higher weight and lack flexibility. In contrast, Ascent’s technology not only approaches similar efficiency levels but also offers substantial advantages in terms of form factor and weight, which are critical differentiators for specialized applications like satellites.
This efficiency milestone does not merely signify incremental improvement; it represents a potential turning point for market adoption, especially in the high-value space sector where high power density is essential and can command significant price premiums.
About Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc.
With 40 years of research and development and 15 years of manufacturing experience, Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. stands as a leading provider of innovative, high-performance, flexible thin-film solar panels. These panels are designed for environments where mass, performance, reliability, and resilience are paramount. Ascent’s photovoltaic modules have been deployed in various applications, including space missions, airborne vehicles, agrivoltaic installations, industrial and commercial construction, as well as an extensive range of consumer goods. The company’s research and development center and its 5-MW nameplate production facility are located in Thornton, Colorado. For more information, visit [Ascent Solar Technologies](https://www.ascentsolar.com).
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/ascent-solar-technologies-achieves-record-15-7-efficiency-for-cigs-solar-technology-at-production-scale/
