Design of Solar Energy Conversion Systems

Catalog description

A review of fundamental concepts in solar energy conversion including photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal conversion systems. The course examines the principles of solar energy conversion to build a foundation for explaining the basic concepts and implementation of conversion processes. It reviews the properties and availability of solar radiation and geometric relationship of sun/collector, principles of photovoltaic conversion and properties of materials used in PV systems, designing PV systems, procedures for solar thermal engineering calculations, and thermal power plants for electricity generation. This course will complement the existing courses on fossil fuels and other renewable energy sources. Students will be engaged to actively participate in learning through team projects, semester papers, class presentations, and field trips.