Course description
Solar Energy: Photovoltaic (PV) Technologies
The technologies used to produce solar cells and photovoltaic modules are advancing to deliver highly efficient and flexible solar panels. In this course you will explore the main PV technologies in the current market. You will gain in-depth knowledge about crystalline silicon based solar cells (90% market share) as well as other emerging technologies including CdTe, CIGS and Perovskites. This courseprovides answers to the questions: How are solar cells made from raw materials? Which technologies have the potential to be the major players for different applications in the future?
This course is part of the Solar Energy Engineering MicroMasters Program designed to cover all physics and engineering aspects of photovoltaics: photovoltaic energy conversion, technologies and systems.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Science or Engineering and/or the successful completion of PV1x (or firm grasp of its content).
Outcome / Qualification etc.
What you'll learn
- Design concepts and fabrication processes of various photovoltaic technologies,
- In-depth knowledge on the entire crystalline silicon solar cell landscape including,
- Market-leading polycrystalline based cells
- High efficiency/cutting edge monocrystalline based solar cells
- Application of thin film solar cells, like CIGS, CdTe, thin-film silicon, Perovskites,
- Concentrated PV and space applications for III/V semiconductor based solar cells.
Audit learners can develop their skills and knowledge in relation to the above learning objectives by having access to the video lectures, a limited number of practice exercises and discussion forum.
Verified learners are offered a number of study tools to demonstrate they have mastered the learning objectives. They will have access to all exercises: practice, graded and exam questions.
Training Course Content
Part 1. Crystalline silicon
Introduction & Crystalline Silicon I
- Introduction to Silicon
- Silicon Processing
Crystalline Silicon II
- c-Si Solar Cell Design
- Advanced cell design
- From cell to module
Part 2. Solar Cell Characterization
Solar cell characterization
- J-V Measurement
- EQE Measurement
- Reflectance - Transmittance Measurement
- Lifetime Measurement
EXAM
Part 3. Thin Film Processing
Thin Film Processing
- Thin Film Design
- Thin Film Deposition
Part 4. Thin Film Technologies
Thin Film Silicon
- TF Silicon Properties
- Major Challenges
- TF Silicon Processing
- State of the Art TF Silicon Devices
EXAM
Chalcogenides & III-V Technologies
- Chalcogenides - CIGS
- Chalcogenides - CdTe
- III-V - Material and Devices
- III-V - Special Applications
Organic Photovoltaics
- OPV Basics
- OPV Technologies
- Perovskites
Part 5. Comparing and Combining Technologies
Comparing & Combining Technologies
- Comparing PV Technologies
- Hybrid PV Devices
- Hybrid PV Systems
EXAM
Course delivery details
This course is offered through The Georgia Institute of Technology, a partner institute of EdX.
4-5 hours per week
Expenses
- Verified Track -$250
- Audit Track - Free