Silicon-based solar cell technology has come into a stage where there is currently a big increase in its production and application. However, its installation on large scale is still obstructed due to its high installation cost. Here, we propose a silicon-based solar cell system for small PV energy systems. This system includes a hybrid solar cell module, which consists of crystalline and amorphous silicon-based solar cells as well as a new maximum power point controller that is much simpler in realization and operation. As proved, this system turns out to be more cost effective as compared to that conventionally constructed, with cost reduced at least by 15%. (c) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.