I think the biggest demand for the silver comes from the store of the value. Silver was and always has been considered as tangible assets.
Solar panel uses silver because it has a highest electrical and thermal conductivity. But copper is also very good in terms of conductivities. If silver supply shortage comes or silver price skyrockets due to the inflation fear, I think they will find an alternative way to use copper for the solar cells. In fact, some researchers have already developed some prototypes. JMHO
Electrical conductivity
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Silver=62,1(10.E6 Siemens/m)
Copper=58,5(10.E6 Siemens/m)
Gold=44,2(10.E6 Siemens/m)
Aluminum=36,9(10.E6 Siemens/m)
Thermal Conductivity
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Silver=420(W/m.k)
Copper=401(W/m.k)
Gold=317(W/m.k)
Aluminum=237(W/m.k)
Disclaimer: it's all iMo~
