The EPRI program in photovoltaics (PV) focuses on two primary thrusts: 1) advancement of PV technology toward high‐performance, affordable systems for energy‐significant electric‐utility use; 2) identification, evaluation, and facilitation of PV applications in the utility sector. The first thrust includes a coordinate, multi‐university effort in amorphous‐silicon materials and device research that is transitioning toward enhanced transfer to industry; and a comprehensive industry‐based program in high‐concentration PV systems development. The second thrust is aimed currently at high value uses that are cost‐effective today, and is expanding to the next generation of applications where PV is expected to compete later in this decade.