Energy from sun: solar cells and photovoltaic modules

3 CFU – Alessio Bosio

Program:

The energy problem is central for the present and future of human activities. The control of the energy resources exploitation and the reduction of the environmental impact, resulting from their use are not only political and economic immediate issues, but it represents a scientific and technological challenge. One of the main alternatives to fossil fuels is the photovoltaic technology.

The course deepens the photovoltaic knowledge both from a physical and technological point of view.

In particular, the main topics are:

Physics of the photovoltaic effect

The solar cell

Characteristics of materials and devices

Comparison between different technologies

From cells to modules

The photovoltaic system - the conditioning system and the power control

The PV electrical capability

Advantages and Disadvantages of PV

Recycling and life cycle assessment

Cost of energy produced by photovoltaic technology