Present Status of Silicon Solar Cells and Photovoltaic Power Systems

Abstract

Direct conversion of solar energy into electricity using solar cells has been gaining momentum in the last 2–3 decades. Among the materials option for the fabrication of solar cells, silicon has dominated the scene and the trend is expected to continue. The crystalline silicon solar cells are manufactured with energy and time intensive processes while amorphous silicon shows a promise for cheap solar cells particularly with thin film technology. Photovoltaic power systems have various design considerations and design techniques developed over the years. However, since these systems are at present crossing the demonstration/pilot testing stages, detailed characterizations to improve the design aspects are desirable before embarking on mass-scale popularization. The cost, although capital intensive at present, is expected to decrease to reasonable level in the near future, and hence, photovoltaic power systems promise to be a viable solution for electricity supplies for low and medium ranges particularly in...