Low-Cost Harvesting of Solar Energy: The Future of Global Photovoltaics

Abstract

Photovoltaics is currently experiencing a rapid global expansion into the Terawatt age, exceeding even the most optimistic predictions of experts just a few years ago. This is driven by innovations, resulting in higher solar energy conversion efficiencies at ever decreasing costs, and the rapidly increasing global market size. This chapter presents a comprehensive discussion of PV technology developments and issues of integration ever increasing amounts of renewable energy into the electricity grid. Based on this we can look forward to establish a reliable, renewables-based energy supply for the world.