Thin film solar cells, also known as thin film photovoltaics, are photovoltaic cells made by depositing one or more thin layers, or thin film (TF) of photovoltaic material onto a substrate, such as glass, plastic or metal. Thin-film solar cells are cheaper to make than conventional silicon wafers and are used to power small personal electronic devices like calculators. They are also used in large-scale installations that supply electricity to the grid.