Photovoltaic Fundamentals

This course teaches basic knowledge about direct energy conversion of light into electricity that takes place in advanced semiconductor devices called solar cells. Another term that denotes the field of direct solar energy conversion into electricity is Photovoltaics (PV). The course starts with explaining the role of PV technology in energy transition towards sustainable energy. It continues with a short overview of solar cell technologies based on different semiconductor materials, PV markets and applications. The main parameters of radiation spectra, and the solar spectrum in particular, are explained. Suitable solar-cell materials and their optical and electronic properties that are relevant to PV energy conversion, such as absorption of light, transport of charge carries, and their recombination-generation, are discussed. The course focuses on solar-cell operating principles that enable illuminated solar cells to deliver electricity. Dark and illuminated "current-voltage (I-V)" characteristics, solar cell external parameters and their measurement are explained. The course treats the conversion efficiency limits of solar cells. The effect of illumination level, temperature, and parasitic resistances on the performance of solar cells is discussed using the equivalent circuit of a solar cell. The optimal design of solar cells is highlighted based on the analysis and minimization of optical and recombination losses in solar cells. A complete PV system is introduced, the individual components and their characteristics are explained. Practical design and sizing rules of PV systems are exercised.