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Shining Light on Solar Cells - Chapter 5.0: How do Solar Cells Work? (Working Principle, IV Curve, Photovoltaic Parameters, Solar Cell Datasheet)

by ChristopherTan

You made it! Now we are finally actually learning solar cells! This video explains

  • working principle
  • IV curve
  • photovoltaic parameters
  • datasheet of a commercial solar panel

References

Record-breaking efficiency solar cell Haase, Felix, et al. "Laser contact openings for local poly-Si-metal contacts enabling 26.1%-efficient POLO-IBC solar cells." Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells 186 (2018): 184-193.

Further reference materials that I highly recommend:

Solar Cells Lecture 1: Introduction to Photovoltaics

ECE Purdue Primer on Semiconductor Fundamentals

A. Kitai, in Principles of Solar Cells, LEDs and Diodes: The Role of the PN Junction, John Wiley & Sons, West Sussex, UK 2011

Luque, A. and Hegedus, S. (2003). Handbook of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering. John Wiley & Sons. ISBN: 978-0-471-49196-5.

 

Other parts in this series:

I'm an R&D Mechanical Engineer from Keysight Technologies. I design mechanical components that facilitate over-the-air testing equipment. I also have a strong background in photovoltaics. I love creating STEM-related content to inspire and encourage people to pursue STEM, as well as to provide career advice to fresh grads who are looking for their first job
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