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Simulation of Photovoltaic Devices - From Materials to Modules
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:29:58
Abstract
The lecture provides an introduction to the theoretical foundations and numerical approaches for the simulation of photovoltaic power conversion, from the microscopic description of component materials to macroscopic continuum modelling of solar cells and network simulation or effective models for performance prediction of entire solar modules.
Objective
Get an overview of the current status of photovoltaic technology. Understand the physics of photovoltaic energy conversion and solar cell device operation. Know how to obtain and assess by simulation the key material properties and device parameters. Be able to use standard device simulation tools to analyze, optimize, and predict the performance of solar cells and modules.
Content
Photovoltaic technology: history and overview; The solar spectrum; Thermodynamics of solar energy conversion; Detailed balance models and efficiency limit; Microscopic rates of charge carrier generation and recombination; Optical simulation of solar cells; Models for charge transport in semiconductor devices; High-efficiency wafer-based (silicon) photovoltaics; Thin film photovoltaics based on disordered materials (amorphous silicon, organic PV); High-efficiency thin film photovoltaics (CIGS, CdTe, metal-halide perovskites); PV beyond the single junction detailed balance (Shockley-Queisser) limit; Simulation of photovoltaic modules; Energy yield and performance modelling for PV systems; Quantum simulation of nanostructure-based solar cell devices (bonus lecture)
Resources
Literature
- P. Würfel &U. Würfel, „Physics of Solar Cells – From Basic Principles to Advanced Concepts“, Wiley-VCH, 2005. - J. Nelson, „Physics of Solar Cells“, Imperial College Press, 2003. - M. A. Green, „Solar cells: operating principles, technology, and system applications“, Prentice Hall, 1982. - B. K. Ridley, "Quantum Processes in Semiconductors", Oxford Science Publications, 1993. - P.T. Landsberg, "Recombination in semiconductors", Cambridge University Pr., 1991. - C. Hamaguchi, "Basic Semiconductor Physics", Springer, Berlin, 2001.
Learning Materials (Links)
- Main link
- lecture homepage
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Simulation of Photovoltaic Devices - From Materials to Modules |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Track: Electronics and Photonics (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Electronics and Photonics", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
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Specialisation Courses (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Electronics and Photonics", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
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Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Programme. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
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Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
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Electives (These courses are particularly recommended, other ETH-courses from the field of Energy Science and Technology at large may be chosen in accordance with your tutor.)
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Doctorate Materials Science (Further information at: )
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