Physics, technology, and use of photovoltaics

Photovoltaic solar energy conversion is a field that has been researched since the 1950s and which now offers one of the most promising methods for dealing with our future energy needs. It is hoped that by the 1990s, manufacturing costs will have decreased sufficiently enough to make photovoltaics an economical, large-scale source of energy. This text deals with all aspects of the subject, introducing the reader to the physics of photovoltaic solar energy conversion with general considerations applying to all types of cells. This is followed by consideration of the device physics of the most important types including crystalline silicon cells and various thin-film structures. Much of the book is devoted to the technology of the different cells, and gives a basis from which the reader should be able to compare the different solar cell technologies and also to design photovoltaic systems. It concludes with discussions on testing of solar cells and modules, photovoltaic systems and existing applications.