This is the traditional solar power system, so we begin with it. These PV solar panels are photovoltaic cells, usually made from silicon formed into flat wafers. Wiring connects the cells to one another, and the entire field of cells is connected to an inverterand ultimately to the home's electrical panel and/or the electric. Thin film panels are flexible strips of material with cells 1/350ththe size of standard crystalline silicon cells. Efficiency is very good, as discussed shortly. These products are also called TF solar cells, TFSC and TFPV. The. There are several ways to reduce the cost of your residential solar energy system. 1. Tax credits:30% federal tax credits for residential solar PV systems are available. 1. Local programs: There.