A comprehensive tutorial on photovoltaic technology now fully updated to include solar storage and the latest methods for on-site plant measurements Starting with the basic principles of solar energy, this fully updated, practical text explains the fundamentals of semiconductor physics and the structure and functioning of the solar cell. It describes the latest measurement techniques for solar modules, and the planning and operation of grid-connected and off-grid PV systems. It also looks at other thin film cells, hybrid wafer cells, and concentrator systems. Additionally, this Second Edition covers solar modules and solar generators; system technology of grid connected plants; the storage of solar energy; photovoltaic measurement technology; the planning and operation of grid-connected systems; economic efficiency of PV systems; and the future development of PV. Presents the latest advances in PV R&D and industry deployment Updated illustrations and tabular data reflect current state-of-the-art and PV technology efficiencies Offers expanded tutorial sections to aid teaching and self-study Includes a brand-new chapter on Solar Energy Storage Features two enlarged chapters—one on up-to-date photovoltaic metrology and the other on the future developments in photovoltaics Comes along with the accompanying website www.textbook-pv.org which offers free downloadable figures of the book, solutions of exercises, additional free PV software etc. Developed to prepare engineering students for the PV industry, this practical text is an essential PV primer.
Concise introduction to the basic principles of solar energy, photovoltaic (PV) systems, PV cells, PV measurement techniques, and grid connected systems, overviewing the potential of PV electricity for students and engineers new to the topic Starting with the basic principles of solar energy, this practical text explains the fundamentals of semiconductor physics and the structure and functioning of the solar cell. It describes current measurement techniques for solar modules, and the planning and operation of grid-connected and off-grid PV systems. Key features: clarifies the technical and economic perspectives of PV energy generation, whilst providing an overview on the current economic status discusses the future development of PV, including efficient promotion instruments and price development each chapter contains various exercises and descriptive examples, with operation results from concrete PV plants an accompanying website hosting exercise solutions, links to further PV references, and free downloads of the figures and additional software www.textbook-pv.org This is an essential text for renewable energy students, technicians and engineers wanting to know how solar cells work and how to design a complete PV plant. It is also a useful resource for PV installers, planners, operators, consultants, financers, potential energy investors and politicians.