Science & Technology of Photovoltaics

Solar Photovoltaics, mature and economically viable in many applications, are extensively used in power generation in recent years. ’Science and Technology of Photovoltaics’ covers several aspects related to PV technologies in a comprehensive way. Starting with fundamentals of semiconductor physics, the book describes different solar cell technologies – crystalline silicon, thin films of amorphous silicon, CdTe, CIS, and III-V compounds, and Dye sensitized and organic cells – with recent technological advances, commercial and production status, Module fabrication, and different types of PV systems. It also deals with Storage batteries, Power conditioning equipment, Design & installation of PV systems and BIPV which is a fast growing area. Lastly, the Energy Analysis and Environmental issues related to the technologies, and the Global Market for PV including the present production and costs as well as the projections for future are briefly discussed.                The book, not only meets the needs of a student of science/engineering pursuing a course in PV, but will be useful and handy to the professionals working in the production, design, and installation and maintenance areas of PV industry. Contents 1. Fundamentals of Solar Cells, 2. Solar Cell Technologies, 3. Solar Modules & Arrays, 4. Solar Photovoltaic Systems, 5. Storage Batteries, 6. Power Conditioning Equipment, 7. Design, Installation and Operation of a Solar PV System, 8. Building Integrated Photovoltaics, 9. Energy Analysis and Environmental Issues, 10. Market for Photovoltaics