Introduction to solar cells from Coursera

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.

History of solar cells

The first topic in an introduction course on solar cells is naturally a historical overview. In this module you will briefly get introduced to the history and early development of solar cells. We will also start to do some calculations of efficiency and energy output of solar cells.

Why solar energy

The most important question one can ask must be: "Why is solar energy is an important topic and why should we develop solar energy?". This module does not claim to answer that question fully, but we will summarize the strong case for renewable energy.

Power from solar cells

How much power can a solar cell produce and how can we measure it? This question is the starting point for this module and we will go through the terminology, talk about light sources, and even measure a solar cell ourselves.

Modelling a solar cell

In this module we will introduce an equivalent circuit of a solar cell and use it to explain key concepts including short circuit current, open circuit voltage, parasitic resistances, and more. We will also talk about connected solar cells, and their behavior in shaded conditions.

How do solar cells work

In this module we will attack the topic: How do solar cells work? This module will be more theory heavy than other parts of the course, but don't worry. We will focus on the key concepts that are necessary to understand how solar cells work, and skip the math.

Efficiency of solar cells

With a knowledge of the working principles of solar cells, we are now ready to apply this knowledge to understand why there are limits to the efficiency of solar cells. We will also briefly look into loss mechanisms that limit the practical efficiency.

Silicon solar cells

Silicon solar cells are by far the most prevalent solar cell technology. In this module we will talk about why silicon is so abundant. We will also learn how silicon solar cells are made, what differentiates multi and monocrystalline silicon, and much more.

Thin film solar cells

Moving beyond silicon solar cells, the next important development is thin film solar cells. In thin film solar cells, we see a potential solution to the major problem associated with silicon solar cells: namely energy payback time.

Polymer solar cells

We will now turn to an example of a third generation solar cell technology: namely polymer solar cells. Polymer solar cells promise to solve all the problems we see with other technologies. They are cheap and fast to produce, they are non-toxic and use non-scarce materials, and they exhibit the lowest energy payback time of any technology. In this module we will learn about pros and cons of this interesting technology.

Solar cell technologies

In our final module of this course we will look into a selection of solar cell technologies and spend some time comparing all the different solar cell technologies.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, 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

Reviews summary

Solar cell basics

According to students, this introductory course on solar cells clearly explains the basics, history, and different generations of solar cells. Learners say the course is well paced, engaging, and easy to understand. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in renewable energy or the solar industry.

The course is well structured with clear goals, engaging videos, and helpful resources, according to students.

"I really liked the course material, especially the various simulation programs."

"What I would suggest is to cover more the economics of solar cells, to understand how the various technologies fit in the value chain of the solar business."

"The syllabus is the exact and necessary for someone who knows little or none about the topic."

Students highly praise the instructor's expertise and clear explanations.

"This course was exceptional, it introduces you to solar cells from a scientific and engineering perspective."

"The teacher who conducts the course and all the professors who speak on videos are really experts on the subject and know how to transmit knowledge."

"I now know that if I were to be accepted into the program, I would get a quality education that will take me where I want to go with both my personal and professional life goals."

Learners say this course covers basic solar cell concepts clearly and concisely, from physics to production to emerging technologies.

"It contains basics of solar cell from physics to commercial level production and various emerging technologies in PV."

"I have learnt a lot. Helped me to understand all the concept required by a fresher in the renewable sector."

"Ranging from materials to spectrum analysis, generations of solar cells and even production of a solar cell."

A few students found the course to be too technical for their level of understanding.

"I give 2.5 stars."

"This course is for beginners so it shall not have so many specifics."

"In my opinion the lessons ought to be streamlined not to confuse or even frustrate students."

Some students also felt that the course lacked depth in certain areas, especially in technical details and advanced technologies.

"It lacks on the technical front since there are fewer calculations involved."

"There is some topics that are a bit of hard to understand, like the direct or undirect gap material."

"Perhaps the course should be split in two and the first part could have a simplified syllabus, skiping all the technicalities."

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

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Sharpen your understanding of basic electronics concepts to enhance your learning in this course.

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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

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Enhance your problem-solving skills by working through practice problems related to solar cell efficiency.

Browse courses on Solar Cell Efficiency

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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

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Engage with your peers to explore the practical applications of solar cells and their potential impact on society.

Browse courses on Solar Cells

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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

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Build a solar cell model

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Build a solar cell model to solidify your understanding of solar cells and their components.

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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

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Create an infographic to present the key concepts of solar cells in a visually engaging and accessible way.

Browse courses on Solar Cells

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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

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Expand your knowledge by exploring research papers to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in solar cell technology.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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