Solar Energy Conversion : The Solar Cell

A large number of solar cell and solar cell systems are described in this volume. The theory of their operation, their design and the levels of their performance is discussed. Originally the book appeared in 1978 but extensive change over the intervening years in the fields of energy generation and consumption, solar energy and solar cells, has necessitated the publication of an updated version. The text initially surveys the requirements of humanity, the subsequent need for solar cells, the nature of sunlight and the properties of semiconductors. Concrete examples, extensive references and theoretical arguments are then used to present a comparison of options available in the design and operation of solar cells and solar cell systems. The cells - constructed from single, crystal, polycrystalline and amorphous semiconductors - and the systems - have varying designs and differing levels of solar energy for input and produce electricity or electrical and thermal energies. Solar cell production, economics and environmental effects are considered throughout the publication. A large number of solar cell and solar cell systems are described in this volume. The theory of their operation, their design and the levels of their performance is discussed. Originally the book appeared in 1978 but extensive change over the intervening years in the fields of energy generation and consumption, solar energy and solar cells, has necessitated the publication of an updated version.

The text initially surveys the requirements of humanity, the subsequent need for solar cells, the nature of sunlight and the properties of semiconductors. Concrete examples, extensive references and theoretical arguments are then used to present a comparison of options available in the design and operation of solar cells and solar cell systems. The cells - constructed from single, crystal, polycrystalline and amorphous semiconductors - and the systems - have varying designs and differing levels of solar energy for input and produce electricity or electrical and thermal energies. Solar cell production, economics and environmental effects are considered throughout the publication. Content: Preface , Pages v-ix Chapter I - Energy Needs—Energy Sources , Pages 1-38 Chapter II - The Sun and Sunlight , Pages 39-70 Chapter III - Semiconductors , Pages 71-118 Chapter IV - Light-Semiconductor Interaction , Pages 119-153 Chapter V - Basic Theoretical Performance , Pages 155-195 Chapter VI - Solar Cell Configuration and Performance , Pages 197-256 Chapter VII - Advanced Approaches , Pages 257-300 Chapter VIII - Advanced Approaches-II , Pages 301-337 Chapter IX - Polycrystalline and Amorphous Solar Cells , Pages 339-362 Chapter X - Concluding Thoughts , Pages 363-396 Appendix A - Conversion Factors , Pages 397-403 Appendix B - Selected Properties of some Semiconductors with Photovoltaic Cell Potential , Pages 403-407 Appendix C - The Saturation Current in pn Junction Solar Cells , Pages 407-411 Appendix D - Some Useful Physical Constants , Page 411 Appendix E - Symbols , Pages 411-419 Subject Index , Pages 420-426 This text discusses solar cells and solar cell systems including their design and levels of performance. Examples, references and theoretical arguments are used to present a comparison of options available in the design and operation of solar cells and solar cell systems.