Solar Energy Fundamentals

Solar energy is recognized as the cleanest, most abundant form of energy we can use. Currently we experience a boom in solar energy related investments, both in mid and large scale. Both are consequences of the technological advances of the last decade that led to huge increases in utilization efficiency and the reduction of the cost of PV panels worldwide. This course explains solar energy principles, applications, research and the various solar energy technologies used.

Objectives

-        To understand solar energy principles

-        To understand the role of solar energy in sustainability

-        To learn all solar energy technologies

-        To learn PV [photo voltaic] technology

-        To understand the alternative methods for solar energy utilization

Contents

DAY 1

-        Introduction to solar energy

-        Global energy balances

-        Solar cells

-        Photovoltaic [PV] technology

DAY 2

-        Electrodynamics

-        Solar radiation

-        Introduction to semiconductors

-        Electron hole pairs: generation and recombination

-        Semiconductor junctions

DAY 3

-        Solar cells elements

-        Efficiency limits

-        Crystalline silicon solar cells

-        Thin film solar cells

-        Third generation cells

DAY 4

-        Introduction to PV systems

-        Location optimization

-        PV systems components

-        Design of a PV system

-        Economics and ecology

DAY 5

-        Solar thermal energy

-        Solar fuels

Who should attend?

This course is a great match for:

-        Chemists, chemical engineers, electrical engineers that need to understand solar energy and PV technology

-        Investors, management members that need to understand solar energy and PV technology in terms of investment opportunities

-        Academics, active citizens that need to learn the latest developments and future trends of solar energy and PV technology