In 2011, around 2 GWp of CdTe solar cells were produced;[4] For more details and discussion see cadmium telluride photovoltaics.

CdTe alloyed with a small amount of zinc makes an excellent solid-state X-ray and gamma ray detector (CdZnTe).

CdTe can operate at room temperature allowing the construction of compact detectors for a wide variety of applications in nuclear spectroscopy.

CdTe has low acute inhalation, oral, and aquatic toxicity, and is negative in the Ames mutagenicity test.

[14] Once properly and securely captured and encapsulated, CdTe used in manufacturing processes may be rendered harmless.

This nomination is strongly supported by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and First Solar Inc.

The material has the potential for widespread applications in photovoltaic energy generation that will involve extensive human interfaces.

Additionally, the classification provided by companies to ECHA notifications classifies it as very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects, very toxic to aquatic life, harmful if inhaled or swallowed and is harmful in contact with skin.