What Is Photovoltaics? -- Physics of Solar Cells -- Silicon Solar Cell Material and Technology -- Crystalline Thin-Film Silicon -- Other Materials, New Concepts, and Future Developments -- Solar Cells and Solar Modules -- PV Systems -- PV Systems: Installation Possibilities -- Environmental Impacts by PV Systems -- Efficiency and Performance of PV Systems -- PV Markets Support Measures and Costs -- The Future of PV -- Other (Perhaps Competing) CO2-Free Energy Sources -- Popular Killing Arguments Against PV and Why They Are Not Valid.

This comprehensive description and discussion of photovoltaics (PV) is presented at a level that makes it accessible to the interested academic. Starting with an historical overview, the text outlines the relevance of photovoltaics today and in the future. Then follows an introduction to the physical background of solar cells and the most important materials and technologies, with particular emphasis placed on future developments and prospects. The book goes beyond technology by also describing the path from the cell to the module to the system, proceeding to important applications, such as grid-connected and stand-alone systems. The composition and development of the markets and the role of PV in future energy systems are also considered. Finally, the discussion turns to the future structure of energy supplies, expected to comprise more distributed generation, and addresses synergies and competition from other carbon-free energy sources.