ENE419 Solar Cell Technology and Applications
- ECTS Credits:
- 7.5
- Responsible department:
- Faculty of Engineering and Science
- Course Leader:
- Anne Gerd Imenes
- Lecture Semester:
- Autumn
- Teaching language:
- English
- Duration:
- 1 term
The course is connected to the following study programs
Teaching language
EnglishCourse contents
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The characteristics of solar radiation and its interaction with solar cells
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The basic operating principles of solar cells (photovoltaic effect, semiconductors, P-N junctions, the diode model for solar cells)
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Parameters affecting solar cell performance (temperature, irradiance, resistance losses)
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Different types of solar cell technologies (materials and manufacturing processes, design strategies for high efficiency)
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The design of PV modules and PV systems
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Stand-alone and grid-connected applications
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Simulation of solar cells and PV system performance
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Indoor and outdoor testing of PV modules
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Economic and environmental aspects for PV system installations
Other selected topics in the context of current research
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:
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have a detailed understanding of photovoltaic (PV) conversion principles from photons to electricity
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explain the operating principles and main factors affecting the behaviour of solar cells
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have a good overview of different solar cell technologies and applications
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understand the role of solar cell technology globally
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evaluate the performance of solar cells and systems
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use simple models for simulation of solar cells and systems
analyse theoretical problems and experimental data and present the results in a professional manner
Examination requirements
Satisfactory submission of compulsory exercises and reports. Information will be given in the Canvas at the beginning of the course.
Teaching methods
Lectures, exercises, laboratory exercise and a mini-project with group presentation in class. The project work requires that part of the syllabus must be read as self-study. There will be a visit to a local PV system installation or a local PV company. Estimated work load for the average student is approximately 200 hours.
Evaluation
The study programme manager decides, in cooperation with student representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end of course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.
Offered as Single Standing Module
Yes, if there are places available.
Assessment methods and criteria
Portfolio (40%). The assignments and reports examination are done in group and the group as a whole is graded. 4h written individual exam (60%). Further information about contents and weighting of the assignments and reports will be given in Canvas at the beginning of the semester.
Reduction of Credits
This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:
| Course | Reduction of Credits |
|---|---|
| ENE412 – Solar Cells and Fuel Cells | 2.5 |