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Introduction to solar cells

Suraj Manikandan

How do solar cells work, why do we need, and how can we measure their efficiency? These are just some of the questions Introduction to solar cells tackles. Whether you are looking for general insight in this green technology or your ambition is to pursue a career in solar, “Introduction to Solar Cells” is an excellent starting point.

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How do solar cells work, why do we need, and how can we measure their efficiency? These are just some of the questions Introduction to solar cells tackles. Whether you are looking for general insight in this green technology or your ambition is to pursue a career in solar, “Introduction to Solar Cells” is an excellent starting point.

The course is a tour through the fundamental disciplines including solar cell history, why we need solar energy, how solar cells produce power, and how they work. During the course we cover mono- and multi-crystalline solar cells, thin film solar cells, and new emerging technologies. The course includes hands-on exercises using virtual instruments, interviews with field experts, and a comprehensive collection of material on solar cells.

At the end of the course you will have gained a fundamental understanding of the field. This will allow you to identify the most interesting or relevant aspects to be pursued in your future studies or in your professional career.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
In this introduction module I would like to introduce you to the course its content and teaching style. I hope you will enjoy the way we have designed the course.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces energy payback time, which is important when analyzing the environmental impact of solar cells
Develops a foundational understanding of solar energy and solar cell power, which is useful for engineers and researchers
Introduces industry standard solar cell technologies including silicon and thin-film, which is useful for those interested in solar manufacturing
Teaches the basics of solar cell operations, focusing on equivalent circuits, which is useful for those interested in solar cell design
Covers the history and development of solar cells, which is useful for those interested in the progression of energy technologies
Course materials include videos, readings, discussions, and hands-on labs, which keep students engaged

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Reviews summary

Solid foundation in solar cell basics

According to learners, this course provides a solid introduction to solar cells, covering the fundamental principles, history, and various technologies like silicon, thin-film, and polymer cells. Many students highlight the clarity of the explanations and the engaging lectures as significant strengths, making complex topics accessible. The course is generally seen as well-structured and suitable for those seeking a general overview or a starting point for a career, fulfilling its stated objectives. Some reviewers mention the hands-on exercises using virtual instruments were helpful, though a few wished for deeper practical application. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few found certain sections, particularly on theoretical aspects, slightly challenging, but manageable. Overall, it's considered a highly valuable and informative course.
Strong on theory, less on practical application.
"While the theory was strong, I felt it could benefit from more practical examples or case studies."
"Good theoretical foundation, but left me wanting more hands-on details."
"Focuses heavily on 'how it works' rather than 'how to build/use it'."
Virtual exercises aid understanding.
"The virtual instrument exercises were a great way to apply what we learned."
"Found the virtual labs helpful for visualizing power curves."
"The hands-on exercises added a valuable dimension to the learning."
Lectures are interesting and hold attention.
"The lectures were engaging and kept me interested throughout the course."
"Found the video lectures dynamic and the instructor's delivery was excellent."
"The way the content is presented makes learning about solar cells enjoyable."
Excellent starting point for beginners.
"An excellent starting point for anyone interested in learning about solar energy."
"Perfect for beginners with no prior knowledge of the subject."
"It served as a great introduction to a complex field."
Covers a wide range of foundational topics.
"Provides a comprehensive overview of solar cell technology, from history to modern types."
"I got a great understanding of the different technologies available."
"Good coverage of the basic principles and different solar cell types."
Concepts are explained clearly and effectively.
"The instructor explains complex topics in a very clear and easy to understand manner. Great job!"
"Loved how well the lectures broke down complicated ideas into understandable chunks."
"Everything is explained very clearly and concisely, which is great for a beginner."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to solar cells with these activities:
Review basic electronics concepts
Sharpen your understanding of basic electronics concepts to enhance your learning in this course.
Browse courses on Electronics
Show steps
  • Review basic electrical concepts such as voltage, current, and resistance.
  • Go through examples of simple circuits and analyze their behavior.
Solve solar cell efficiency problems
Enhance your problem-solving skills by working through practice problems related to solar cell efficiency.
Browse courses on Solar Cell Efficiency
Show steps
  • Review the concepts of solar cell efficiency and the factors that affect it.
  • Find practice problems online or in textbooks.
  • Solve the problems and check your answers.
Discuss solar cell applications
Engage with your peers to explore the practical applications of solar cells and their potential impact on society.
Browse courses on Solar Cells
Show steps
  • Find a study partner or join an online discussion group.
  • Discuss different applications of solar cells, such as in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
  • Share your insights and learn from others' perspectives.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Build a solar cell model
Build a solar cell model to solidify your understanding of solar cells and their components.
Browse courses on Solar Cells
Show steps
  • Gather materials such as cardboard, wire, and a light source.
  • Design and construct a simple solar cell model based on the principles you've learned in the course.
  • Test your model under different light conditions and record the results.
  • Analyze the results and compare them to the theoretical predictions.
Create a solar cell infographic
Create an infographic to present the key concepts of solar cells in a visually engaging and accessible way.
Browse courses on Solar Cells
Show steps
  • Gather information and data about solar cells.
  • Design and create an infographic using software or online tools.
  • Share your infographic with others.
Explore solar cell research papers
Expand your knowledge by exploring research papers to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in solar cell technology.
Browse courses on Solar Cells
Show steps
  • Identify reputable journals and conferences in the field of solar energy.
  • Search for recent research papers on topics that interest you.
  • Read and summarize the key findings of the papers.
Contribute to a solar cell open-source project
Gain hands-on experience and make a meaningful contribution to the field by collaborating on open-source solar cell projects.
Browse courses on Solar Cells
Show steps
  • Find reputable open-source projects related to solar cells.
  • Identify a specific task or feature to work on.
  • Collaborate with the project maintainers and contribute your code.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to solar cells will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Solar Engineer
Learn all about solar cells and solar energy with this "Introduction to Solar Cells" course by pursuing a career as a Solar Engineer. In this field, you will be responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining solar energy systems, and this course provides a great opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills you need. You will learn about the history of solar cells, why solar energy is important, how solar cells produce power, and how they work. You will also learn about different types of solar cells, including mono- and multi-crystalline silicon solar cells, thin film solar cells, and new emerging technologies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Engineer
Solar Cell Researcher
Want to help develop the next generation of solar cells? Consider a profession as a Solar Cell Researcher. This course will give you a solid foundation of solar cell science, preparing you to make a meaningful contribution to renewable energy. By learning about how solar cells work, the efficiency of solar cells, and the different types of solar cell technologies, you will gain the skills and knowledge necessary for this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Cell Researcher
Solar Project Manager
In the role of a Solar Project Manager, you will be responsible for planning, organizing, and managing solar energy projects. This course will provide you with the essential knowledge to excel in this field. You will learn about the different stages of a solar project, from development to construction to operation and maintenance. You will also learn about the challenges and opportunities involved in developing and managing solar projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Project Manager
Solar Sales Engineer
If you are passionate about solar energy and enjoy working with people, consider a career as a Solar Sales Engineer. In this role, you will be responsible for selling and marketing solar energy systems to customers. This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to be successful in this field. You will learn about the different types of solar energy systems, their benefits, and how to calculate the cost of a solar energy system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Sales Engineer
Solar Installer
Are you interested in a hands-on career in the solar industry? Solar Installers are in high demand as the need for solar energy grows. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to install and maintain solar energy systems. You will learn about the different components of a solar energy system, how to install a solar energy system, and how to troubleshoot and repair solar energy systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Installer
Photovoltaic Engineer
A Photovoltaic Engineer designs, installs, and maintains photovoltaic systems, which convert sunlight into electricity. This course provides a comprehensive overview of solar cells and solar energy, giving you the foundation you need to succeed in this field. You will learn about the different types of solar cells, how solar cells work, and how to design and install photovoltaic systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Photovoltaic Engineer
Solar Cell Manufacturer
As a Solar Cell Manufacturer, you will be responsible for manufacturing solar cells, which are used to convert sunlight into electricity. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. You will learn about the different types of solar cells, how solar cells are manufactured, and how to quality control solar cells.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Cell Manufacturer
Solar Energy Consultant
If you are passionate about solar energy and enjoy helping others, consider a career as a Solar Energy Consultant. In this role, you will be responsible for advising clients on how to use solar energy to meet their needs. This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to be successful in this field. You will learn about the different types of solar energy systems, their benefits, and how to calculate the cost of a solar energy system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Energy Consultant
Solar Energy Project Developer
Interested in developing and managing solar energy projects? Solar Energy Project Developers are responsible for the entire lifecycle of solar energy projects, from development to construction to operation and maintenance. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. You will learn about the different stages of a solar energy project, the challenges and opportunities involved in developing and managing solar energy projects, and how to finance solar energy projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Energy Project Developer
Renewable Energy Project Developer
A Renewable Energy Project Developer is responsible for developing and managing renewable energy projects, including solar energy projects. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this field. You will learn about the different types of renewable energy projects, the challenges and opportunities involved in developing and managing renewable energy projects, and how to finance renewable energy projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Renewable Energy Project Developer
Environmental Consultant
As an Environmental Consultant, you will help organizations reduce their environmental impact and comply with environmental regulations. This course may be helpful for understanding solar energy as a renewable energy source and its implications for environmental sustainability.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant
Electrical Engineer
With a background in electrical engineering, you may find the topic of solar cells and solar energy particularly interesting. This course will provide you with a foundation in solar cell technology, which may complement your existing knowledge and skills.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, build, and maintain mechanical systems. This course may be helpful for understanding the mechanical aspects of solar cells and solar energy systems, which could complement your existing knowledge and skills.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer
Materials Scientist
As a Materials Scientist, you study the properties of materials and develop new materials for various applications. This course may be helpful for understanding the materials used in solar cells and solar energy systems, which could complement your existing knowledge and skills.
See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers design, build, and operate chemical plants and processes. This course may be helpful for understanding the chemical processes involved in manufacturing solar cells and solar energy systems, which could complement your existing knowledge and skills.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to solar cells.
Cover image
Solar Cell Device Physics
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of solar cells. It covers the history of solar cells, the principles of operation, and the different types of solar cells. good background resource for anyone interested in learning more about solar cells.
Solar Cell Device Physics
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
The Physics of Solar Cells
Save
An advanced textbook on the physics of solar cells. It covers the basic principles of solar cells, as well as the more advanced topics of solar cell efficiency and solar cell applications.
PHYSICS OF SOLAR CELLS, THE (Properties of...
Paperback
$$$
Physics Of Solar Cells, The: Photons In, Electrons...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Photovoltaic (PV) System Delivery as Reliable...
Save
A comprehensive reference handbook that covers the latest advancements in renewable energy technologies, providing a detailed overview of the scientific principles, methods, and applications.
Photovoltaic (PV) System Delivery as Reliable...
Hardcover
$$$$
Photovoltaic (PV) System Delivery as Reliable...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Solar Cells
Save
An older but still comprehensive text on solar cells. It covers the basics of solar cells, as well as the more advanced topics of solar cell efficiency and solar cell applications.
Solar Cells
Paperback
Check
Solar Cells
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Solar Cells and Their Applications
Save
A practical guide to solar cells and their applications. It covers the different types of solar cells, as well as the design, installation, and maintenance of solar cell systems.
Solar Cells and Their Applications (Wiley Series in...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Fundamentals of Renewable Energy Sources
Save
A comprehensive textbook on solar energy. It covers the different solar technologies, as well as the applications of solar energy.
Fundamentals of Renewable Energy Sources
Paperback
Check
Fundamentals of Renewable Energy Sources
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
ENERGY SWARAJ
Save
A comprehensive textbook covering the entire range of solar photovoltaics topics. It provides clear explanations of the underlying principles and offers practical guidance on various aspects of solar PV systems.
ENERGY SWARAJ : My Experiments with SOLAR Truth
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Renewable Energy Resources
Save
A comprehensive textbook on renewable energy. It covers the different types of renewable energy, as well as the applications of renewable energy.
Renewable Energy Resources
Paperback
Check
Renewable Energy Resources
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Glancing Angle Deposition of Thin Films
Save
A comprehensive text on thin-film solar cells. It covers the different types of thin-film solar cells, as well as the fabrication, characterization, and applications of thin-film solar cells.
Glancing Angle Deposition of Thin Films:...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Carbon nanotubes and graphene for photonic...
Save
A comprehensive text on polymer solar cells. It covers the different types of polymer solar cells, as well as the fabrication, characterization, and applications of polymer solar cells.
Carbon nanotubes and graphene for photonic...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Full House
Save
A comprehensive textbook on energy. It covers the different types of energy, as well as the challenges and opportunities for energy.
Full House: Reassessing the Earth's Population...
Paperback
$$
Full House (Routledge Library Editions: Demography)
Hardcover
$$$
Full House: Reassessing the Earth’s Population...
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Course image
Effort
5 weeks of study, 2-3 hours per week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Instructor
Suraj Manikandan
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces energy payback time, which is important when analyzing the environmental impact of solar cells
Develops a foundational understanding of solar energy and solar cell power, which is useful for engineers and researchers
Introduces industry standard solar cell technologies including silicon and thin-film, which is useful for those interested in solar manufacturing
Teaches the basics of solar cell operations, focusing on equivalent circuits, which is useful for those interested in solar cell design
Covers the history and development of solar cells, which is useful for those interested in the progression of energy technologies
Course materials include videos, readings, discussions, and hands-on labs, which keep students engaged
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