Physical Society Colloquium

Next Generation Photovoltaics

Karin Hinzer

School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
University of Ottawa

Photovoltaics have reached grid parity in the sunniest areas up to the 49th parallel. This talk will cover photovoltaics basics as well as newer technologies for higher efficiencies. Current panel efficiencies can reach 23% efficiency, while newer technologies can reach values higher than 40% [1]. How is this obtained and what do you gain in terms of payback? [2-4] How are these panels integrated in the grid? [5] How can these photovoltaics be converted to power other devices in locations where power cannot be transported by conducting wires? [6-7] Answers to these questions and others using examples of research projects on new materials, new configurations and new integrated designs being done at the uOttawa SUNLAB will be presented.

1. M. Steiner IEEE J. Photovoltaics 6 1020 (2016).
2. V. Tatsiankou, Sol. Energy, 133, 94 (2016).
3. P. Besson, et al. Opt. Express, 24(2), A397 (2016).
4. A. H. Trojnar et al. IEEE J. Photovoltaics, 6 1494 (2016).
5. J.E. Haysom, et al. Prog. Photovoltaics: Res. Appl., 24(2), 253 (2016).
6. S. Fafard, et al. Appl. Phys. Lett. 108, 071101 (2016).
7. M. Wilkins, et al. J. Appl. Phys., 118 (143102) (2015).