Physics of silicon solar cells from Coursera

The first MOOC “Photovoltaic solar energy” is a general presentation of the solar photovoltaics technologies in the global energetic context, without extensive details. In particular the description of the solar cell operation is restricted to the ideal case

In contrast this second MOOC allows a deep understanding of the properties of solar cells based on crystalline semiconductors. It consists in a general presentation of the physics of the photovoltaics devices with a particular emphasize on the silicon technology that currently represents more than 90% share of the market. Photovoltaic applications of III-V semiconductors are also mentioned.

Indeed from a fundamental point of view, a solar cell can be considered as a semiconductor device (a diode) exposed to the sunlight. An introduction to the semiconductor physics is given, followed by the electron transport phenomena in a diode device. A detailed description of the solar cell operation is then provided, including the conversion efficiency limitations. A description of the solar spectrum and the optical properties of the cells are also presented. Finally the crystalline silicon technology is described from the bulk crystalline growth up to the preparation of heterojunctions combining crystalline and amorphous materials.

What's inside

Syllabus

INTRODUCTION TO SEMICONDUCTOR PHYSICS

Introduction to semiconductor physics : band structure of crystalline semiconducors, optical absorption and doping.

TRANSPORT PHENOMENA : THE p-n JUNCTION

Transport phenomena in semiconductors : carrier injection by light and recombination; the equilibrium and non-equilibrium p-n junction; the photovoltaic effect

ASYMMETRICAL DEVICES

Metal-semiconductor contacts and semiconductor surface; Heterojunctions

SOLAR CELL OPERATION

Solar Spectrum; solar cell Fundamentals; limitations of conversion efficiency; solar modules

CRYSTALLINE SEMICONDUCTOR SOLAR CELLS

Description of the crystalline silicon photovoltaic technology from bulk crystal growth. Extension to III-V compounds solar cells.

SILICON HETEROJUNCTIONS

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops understanding of semiconductor physics, which is fundamental in electronic engineering

Explores concepts related to crystalline silicon technology, which is highly relevant to solar energy

Taught by reputed experts in photovoltaic solar energy

Requires background in semiconductor physics, which may pose a barrier to learners without prior knowledge

Reviews summary

Silicon solar cell physics well-explained

Learners say this course is well-explained and engaging. It delves into the physics of silicon solar cells and is great for beginners who want to enter the solar energy engineering field. However, learners note the instructor's accent can be difficult to understand at times.

Great course for beginners in solar energy engineering.

"It's a great course for those who technically want to start their career in the Solar energy engineering field. "

Examples and assignments are clear.

"Very interesting course to go through, examples were provided clearly and explained well."

"it is very relevant and i have come to know many unknown topics ."

The instructor's accent was difficult for some to understand.

"The main instructor pronunciation was very difficult to understand"

"Except for the accent of the prof, everything is okay. "

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 Physics of silicon solar cells with these activities:

Volunteer at a local solar energy installation

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the growth of the solar industry by volunteering at a solar energy installation project.

Browse courses on Renewable Energy

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Find local organizations or companies that offer volunteer opportunities.
Sign up for a volunteer shift and assist with tasks related to solar panel installation or maintenance.

Review Maxwell's equations

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Brush up on your knowledge of Maxwell's equations to strengthen your foundation for understanding the principles of solar cell operation.

Browse courses on Maxwell's Equations

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Read a textbook chapter or online resource on Maxwell's equations.
Solve practice problems involving Maxwell's equations.

Join the IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference

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Expand your professional network and connect with experts in the field of photovoltaics by joining this professional organization.

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Sign up for IEEE membership and join the Photovoltaic Specialists Conference.
Attend local chapter meetings and events.

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Attend the Solar Power International Conference

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Immerse yourself in the latest advancements and industry trends in solar energy by attending this major conference.

Browse courses on Photovoltaics

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Register for the conference and plan your schedule.
Attend sessions and workshops relevant to the course topics.

Explore PSpice or LTspice for circuit simulation

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Gain hands-on experience with circuit simulation software to enhance your understanding of solar cell behavior under various conditions.

Browse courses on Circuit Simulation

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Install PSpice or LTspice on your computer.
Follow online tutorials or documentation to learn the basics of the software.
Build and simulate a simple solar cell circuit.

Solve problems on solar cell efficiency and limitations

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Reinforce your understanding of the factors that affect solar cell efficiency and the theoretical limits of conversion efficiency.

Browse courses on Solar Cell Efficiency

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Review lecture notes and textbook sections on solar cell efficiency.
Work through practice problems provided by the instructor or found online.

Read 'Solar Cells: Principles and Applications' by Nelson

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of solar cell principles and their practical applications by reading this authoritative textbook.

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Read and take notes on selected chapters relevant to the course topics.
Summarize key concepts and equations in your own words.

Develop an infographic on the history of solar cells

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Explore the historical evolution of solar cell technology by creating a visually engaging infographic that showcases key milestones and advancements.

Browse courses on Photovoltaics

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Research the history of solar cells from its inception to the present day.
Identify significant events, inventions, and scientists involved in the development of solar cells.
Design and create an infographic that presents the historical timeline in a clear and visually appealing way.

Career center

Learners who complete Physics of silicon solar cells will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Solar Cell Engineer

A Solar Cell Engineer designs, develops, and tests solar cells to convert sunlight into electricity. This course provides a solid foundation in the physics of solar cells, including the operation of the p-n junction, the limitations of conversion efficiency, and the properties of crystalline semiconductors. This knowledge is essential for Solar Cell Engineers to understand the design and optimization of solar cells.

See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Cell Engineer

Semiconductor Device Physicist

A Semiconductor Device Physicist researches and develops new semiconductor devices, including solar cells. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the physics of semiconductors, including the band structure of crystalline semiconductors, optical absorption, and doping. This knowledge is essential for Semiconductor Device Physicists to understand the design and optimization of semiconductor devices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Device Physicist

Solar Energy Researcher

A Solar Energy Researcher investigates new ways to generate and use solar energy. This course provides a strong foundation in the physics of solar cells, including the operation of the p-n junction, the limitations of conversion efficiency, and the properties of crystalline semiconductors. This knowledge is essential for Solar Energy Researchers to understand the design and optimization of solar energy systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Energy Researcher

Photovoltaic Engineer

A Photovoltaic Engineer designs, installs, and maintains photovoltaic systems to generate electricity from sunlight. This course provides a deep understanding of the physics of solar cells, including the transport phenomena in semiconductors, the operation of the p-n junction, and the limitations of conversion efficiency. This knowledge is invaluable for Photovoltaic Engineers to understand the design and optimization of photovoltaic systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Photovoltaic Engineer

Materials Scientist

A Materials Scientist researches and develops new materials for use in a variety of applications, including solar cells. This course provides a detailed description of the crystalline silicon technology used in solar cells, including the bulk crystalline growth and the preparation of heterojunctions. This knowledge is essential for Materials Scientists to understand the design and optimization of new materials for solar cells.

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Optical Engineer

An Optical Engineer designs and develops optical systems for use in a variety of applications, including solar cells. This course provides a detailed description of the optical properties of solar cells, including the solar spectrum and the absorption of light. This knowledge is helpful for Optical Engineers to understand the design and optimization of optical systems for solar cells.

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Nanotechnology Engineer

A Nanotechnology Engineer designs and develops nanomaterials and devices for use in a variety of applications, including solar cells. This course provides an introduction to the semiconductor physics and the properties of crystalline semiconductors. This knowledge is helpful for Nanotechnology Engineers to understand the design and optimization of nanomaterials and devices for solar cells.

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Electrical Engineer

An Electrical Engineer designs and develops electrical systems for use in a variety of applications, including solar cells. This course provides a basic understanding of the transport phenomena in semiconductors and the operation of the p-n junction. This knowledge is helpful for Electrical Engineers to understand the design and optimization of electrical systems for solar cells.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

A Mechanical Engineer designs and develops mechanical systems for use in a variety of applications, including solar cells. This course provides a basic understanding of the transport phenomena in semiconductors and the operation of the p-n junction. This knowledge is helpful for Mechanical Engineers to understand the design and optimization of mechanical systems for solar cells.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Chemical Engineer

A Chemical Engineer designs and develops chemical processes for use in a variety of applications, including solar cells. This course provides a basic understanding of the semiconductor physics and the properties of crystalline semiconductors. This knowledge is helpful for Chemical Engineers to understand the design and optimization of chemical processes for solar cells.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer

Computer Scientist

A Computer Scientist designs and develops computer systems for use in a variety of applications, including solar cells. This course provides a basic understanding of the semiconductor physics and the properties of crystalline semiconductors. This knowledge is helpful for Computer Scientists to understand the design and optimization of computer systems for solar cells.

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Technical Writer

A Technical Writer creates and edits technical documentation. This course provides a basic understanding of the semiconductor physics and the properties of crystalline semiconductors. This knowledge may be helpful for Technical Writers to understand the technical aspects of solar cells.

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Data Scientist

A Data Scientist analyzes data to extract insights and solve problems. This course provides a basic understanding of the semiconductor physics and the properties of crystalline semiconductors. This knowledge may be helpful for Data Scientists to understand the data generated by solar cells.

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Business Analyst

A Business Analyst analyzes business processes to identify and solve problems. This course provides a basic understanding of the semiconductor physics and the properties of crystalline semiconductors. This knowledge may be helpful for Business Analysts to understand the business implications of solar cells.

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Project Manager

A Project Manager plans and executes projects to achieve specific goals. This course provides a basic understanding of the semiconductor physics and the properties of crystalline semiconductors. This knowledge may be helpful for Project Managers to understand the technical aspects of solar cell projects.

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