Table of Contents:

Chapter 1 Background
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Urgent Attention to World Population Forecasts
1.3 Energy Demand and Carbon Dioxide Emissions
1.4 A Brief Overview of Thermodynamics
1.5 A Brief History of Photovoltaics
1.6 Energy Units
Problems
References
Suggested Reading

Chapter 2 The Sun
2.1 Introduction
2.2 The Solar Spectrum
2.3 The Effect of Atmosphere on Sunlight
2.4 Sunlight Specifics
2.5 Capturing Sunlight
Problems
References
Suggested Reading

Chapter 3 Introduction to PV Systems
3.1 Introduction
3.2 The PV Cell [1.2]
3.3 The PV Module – Essentials and Improvements
3.4 The PV Array
3.5 Energy Storage
3.6 PV System Loads and MPPT
3.7 PV System Availability – Traditional Concerns and New Concerns
3.8 Inverters – Conversion of DC to AC
3.9 BOS Components
Homework Problems
References

Chapter 4 Grid-Connected Utility Interactive PV Systems
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Applicable Codes and Standards
4.3 Design Considerations for Straight Grid-Connected PV Systems
4.4 Utility Interconnection Options
4.5 Design of a System Based on Desired Annual System Performance using Microinverters
4.6 Design of an Optimizer System Based Upon Available Roof Space
4.7 Design of a String Inverter-Based System
4.8 Design of a Nominal 100 kW Commercial Rooftop System that Feeds a Three-Phase Distribution Panel
4.9 Design of a Nominal 5-MW Agrivoltaic System
Problems
References
Suggested Readings

Chapter 5 Structural Considerations
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Important Properties of Materials
5.3 Design and Installation Guidelines
5.4 Forces Acting on PV Arrays
5.5 Rooftop Mounting System Design
5.6 Large-Scale Ground Mount Arrays
HomeworkProblems
References
Suggested Reading

Chapter 6 Energy Storage Systems
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Lithium Batteries
6.3 Nickel-Based Battery Systems
6.4 Flow Batteries
6.5 Emerging Battery Technologies
6.6 Hydrogen Storage
6.7 The Fuel Cell
6.8 Mechanical, Thermal and Other Storage Options
6.9 AC and DC Batteries
Homework Problems
References
Suggested Reading

Chapter 7 Grid-Connected PV Systems with Energy Storage (ESS)
7.1 Introduction
7.2 ESS Design Basics
7.3 A Microinverter-Based 120/240 Volt AC-Coupled Partial Home Battery Backup System
7.4 A Whole House AC-Coupled Backup System Using a String Inverter
7.5 A 10 kW DC-Coupled PV/ESS Partial Backup System
7.6 A 45 kW Three-Phase PV with BESS Using Inverters in Tandem
7.7 Large BESS Design Considerations
Homework Problems
References
Suggested Reading

Chapter 8 Stand-Alone PV Systems
8.1 Introduction
8.2 The Simplest Configuration: Module and Fan
8.3 A PV-Powered Water Pumping System
8.4 A PV-Powered Parking Lot Lighting System
8.5 A PV-Powered Mountain Cabin
8.6 Summary of Design Procedures
Homework Problems
References
Suggested Reading

Chapter 9 Economic and Environmental Considerations
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Life Cycle Costing
9.3 Borrowing Money
9.4 Payback Analysis
9.5 Externalities
Homework Problems
References
Suggested Reading

Chapter 10 The Physics of Photovoltaic Cells
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Optical Absorption
10.3 Extrinsic Semiconductors and the pn Junction
10.4 Maximizing PV Cell Performance
10.5 Exotic Junctions
Homework Problems
References

Chapter 11 Evolution of Photovoltaic Cells and Systems
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Silicon PV Cells
11.3 Gallium Arsenide Cells
11.4 CIGS Cells
11.5 Cadmium Telluride Cells
11.6 Emerging Technologies
11.7 Micro Grids
11.8 Summary
Homework Problems
References
Suggested Reading
Index

The primary purpose of this textbook is to provide a comprehensive set of photovoltaic (PV) knowledge and understanding tools for the design, installation, commissioning, inspection and operation of PV systems (commonly comprising solar cells, solar modules and solar panels). In recent years, more PV systems have been installed worldwide than any other electricity source. New, more efficient, more reliable and more cost-effective components and processes are rapidly appearing, along with continuously changing codes and standards. To keep up with the rapid changes, understanding the underlying principles is essential.

In addition to practical system design and installation information, this edition includes explanations of the basic principles upon which the design and operation of PV systems are based, along with a consideration of the economic and environmental impact of the technology. Numerous design examples are presented to assist the reader in incorporating the basic principles, components, codes and standards.

The book begins with basic sunlight parameters, system electronic components, wiring methods, structural considerations and energy storage methods Emphasis is on grid-connected systems, but a chapter on stand-alone systems is also included. Homework problems in each chapter focus on basic principles of the chapter but also include open-ended design problems to challenge the reader’s creativity and understanding.