Photovoltaic Technologies and Systems

Course Description

Unlock the power of solar energy with our advanced course on Photovoltaic Technologies and Systems. This cutting-edge program, offered by DelftX, delves deep into the world of solar cells and photovoltaic modules, exploring the latest advancements in technology that are revolutionizing the solar energy industry. From crystalline silicon-based solar cells to emerging technologies like CdTe, CIGS, and Perovskites, this course covers it all, providing you with comprehensive knowledge of the current market and future potential of various photovoltaic technologies.

What You Will Learn

  • In-depth understanding of crystalline silicon solar cell technology, including market-leading polycrystalline and cutting-edge monocrystalline cells
  • Design concepts and fabrication processes for various photovoltaic technologies
  • Applications of thin-film solar cells, including CIGS, CdTe, thin-film silicon, and Perovskites
  • Concentrated PV and space applications for III-V semiconductor-based solar cells
  • Solar cell characterization techniques and thin-film processing methods
  • Comparative analysis of different PV technologies and their market potential
  • Hybrid PV devices and systems

Prerequisites

  • Bachelor's degree in Science or Engineering
  • Successful completion of PV1x course or a firm grasp of its content
  • Advanced level of understanding in physics and engineering concepts related to photovoltaics

Course Content

  • Introduction to silicon and silicon processing
  • Crystalline silicon solar cell design and advanced cell concepts
  • Solar cell characterization techniques (J-V, EQE, Reflectance-Transmittance, Lifetime measurements)
  • Thin-film processing and technologies (Silicon, CIGS, CdTe)
  • III-V semiconductor solar cells and special applications
  • Organic photovoltaics and Perovskite technology
  • Comparison and combination of different PV technologies
  • Market trends and future prospects in the solar energy industry

Who This Course Is For

  • Engineering and science professionals looking to specialize in solar energy
  • Researchers and academics interested in advancing their knowledge of photovoltaic technologies
  • Industry professionals seeking to stay updated with the latest developments in solar cell technology
  • Entrepreneurs and innovators looking to enter the solar energy market
  • Environmental enthusiasts passionate about renewable energy solutions

Real-World Applications

  • Developing more efficient and cost-effective solar panels for residential and commercial use
  • Designing innovative thin-film solar cells for flexible and lightweight applications
  • Improving the performance of existing solar energy systems through advanced characterization techniques
  • Contributing to research and development of next-generation photovoltaic technologies
  • Assessing and comparing different solar technologies for large-scale energy projects
  • Implementing hybrid PV systems for optimized energy production in diverse environments
  • Advising on solar energy policies and market trends for government and private sector organizations

Syllabus

Part 1. Crystalline silicon

Week 1. Introduction & Crystalline Silicon I

Week 2. Crystalline Silicon II

Part 2. Solar Cell Characterization

Week 3. Solar cell characterization

Part 3. Thin Film Processing

Week 4. Thin Film Processing

Part 4. Thin Film Technologies

Week 5. Thin Film Silicon

Week 6. Chalcogenides & III-V Technologies

Week 7. Organic Photovoltaics

Part 5. Comparing and Combining Technologies

Week 8. Comparing & Combining Technologies

Each part includes detailed subtopics and three exams throughout the course to assess your understanding and progress.

By enrolling in this course, you'll not only gain valuable knowledge and skills in photovoltaic technologies but also have the opportunity to earn a microcredential, demonstrating your expertise in this rapidly growing field of solar energy engineering.