Calendar

SES # TOPICS KEY DATES
1 Introduction

Types of Photovoltaic Systems

History of PV Technology Development

Current Status: Technology, Policy, Markets
 
2 The Solar Resource

Solar Geometry - Direct Beam Flux onto a Surface "In Space"

Earth-bound Flux - Kt, the "Clearness Index"
Exercise #1 due
3 The Solar Resource (cont.)

Database - US Sites

Monthly Average Daily Insolation, TMY Data
 
4 The Photovoltaic Module

Current-voltage Characteristics, Insolation, Temperature Effects

Module Efficiency, Module Rating, "Full Sun Hours" Output
Exercise #2 due
5 Photovoltaic Array Performance

Series, Parallel Module Networking, Diode Placement

Output as Function of Array Orientation, Tracking
 
6 Stand-alone System Elements

Energy Storage, Battery Characteristics

Load Requirements

Charge Control, Max. Power Tracking, Load Management
Exercise #3 due
7 Stand-alone System Sizing

First Order Estimation of Average Daily Performance
 
8 Stand-alone System Sizing (cont.)

Probability of Loss of Load - Markov Process Model
Exercise #4 due
9 Stand-alone System Sizing (cont.)

Effect of Day-to-day Correlation
 
10 Evaluation of PV Station Data

Solar Resource

Module Output - Temperature Effects
 
11 Grid-connected Systems

Power Conditioning

Utility Constraints
 
12 Grid-connected Systems (cont.)

Architectural/Structural Considerations
 
13 PV Cost/Benefit Calculations

Net Present Value - Ex: Almeda County Megawatt Facility

Government Subsidies and Incentives
Exercise #5 due
14 Student Presentations Final report due