Presented are the results of a comparative analysis to identify abundant, non-toxic binary materials with potential applicability for photovoltaics. Materials other than the conventional Si, CdTe, and Cu(In,Ga)Se(2) (CIGS) are examined. The screening is based on the materials' bulk properties and a set of environmental, physical, and chemical criteria. The screening process is detailed and the properties and applicability of the screened materials are discussed. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.