Solar Cell and Photovoltaics

Catalog description

Students in this course study the basic scientific and technological aspects relevant to physics of classic and novel nano-structured materials in photovoltaic devices; physical models of solar cell operation; characteristics and design of common types of solar cells; approaches to increasing solar cell efficiency; engineering of the large-area solar cell modules using single and multi-junction solar cells; stand-alone and grid connected PV module design and components and PV economic analysis. The focus is on the latest knowledge of the mechanisms of solar energy conversion and concepts of standard and novel solar cell devices and PV modules engineering and applications. Examples of recent photovoltaic systems are presented and analyzed, helping students to understand the factors driving conversion efficiency and to stimulate them to apply this knowledge to their own solar cell development ideas. The course provides principles that are developed with the minimum of mathematics and with the emphasis on physical concepts and applications.