Welcome to the CAPDS website!

The Centre for Advanced Photovoltaic Devices and Systems (CAPDS) promotes cutting edge research and technology development in all aspects of photovoltaic (PV) energy conversion.

Located at the University of Waterloo (UW), right at the heart of Canada's Technology Triangle Area, the CAPDS is a 14000 sq.ft. research facility with dedicated infrastructure for PV research. The CAPDS, occupying the entire ground floor of UW's brand-new Energy Research Centre (ERC) building, supports synthesis of semiconductor base materials, nanotechnologies for PV, design and fabrication of advanced PV devices and modules, and testing and characterization of PV materials, devices and systems. Backed by state-of-the-art infrastructure and expertise, the multi-faceted research at the CAPDS spans the entire spectrum of PV technology, and makes it a unique facility that is capable of making a meaningful impact on the quest for rendering PV affordable as an energy alternative. The CAPDS initiative is funded by the Canadian Federal Government, the Ontario Provincial Government, Industry, and by the University of Waterloo. The CAPDS facility is all set to become fully operational in year 2010.