The growth and demand for Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) energy systems has been strong and in line with the increasing importance of renewable energy. Worldwide demand and production of SPV systems has been growing at a compound annual growth rate of more than 30% over the last decade. There have been significant advances in technology, spanning the entire value chain consisting of solar cells, modules and balance-of-system (BOS) components. This has resulted in an increase in efficiency and a significant cost reduction over the years, making SPV systems viable both in small stand-alone and large grid-connected applications.

Solar energy, which is the Earth's most available energy source, can be converted to electricity providing scalable and clean power requiring minimal maintenance. This book deals with the subject of Solar Photovoltaics in some detail covering the basics as well as advanced topics. All the important areas of SPV, covering both science and technology, have been addressed in this book. Commencing with the basic principles, different types of solar cells from bulk silicon (Si) to thin film cells are described comprehensively. Tandem concentrator cells now provide the highest efficiencies of 43%. Newer low cost alternatives, such as organics and perovskites, are also discussed. Manufacturing details have been covered in great detail. The basic cost and investment calculations of SPV manufacturing and systems leading to economic viability have also been included. These aspects are generally not covered in most of the books published in this field. Several practical and state-of-the art manufacturing and system design details have been presented based on the experience of one of the authors (J. N. Roy). This book should be useful for students studying this important subject, who eventually want to pursue careers in this field. The book should be also useful for researchers and industry personnel who want to have a thorough understanding of the subject. Each chapter has illustrations and tables. There are several examples and exercises throughout the book to help consolidate thorough learning of the subject.

Chapter 1 presents a general introduction to the subject of solar energy in the context of global warming. Solar insolation and distribution are presented and some basic terms are defined. This is followed by the principles of operation of SPV devices, device characteristics, criteria for choice of materials, and critical parameters for efficient operation.