High reliability and system lifetimes in the range of 30 years are essential for renewable energy systems such as photovoltaic power plants to minimise costs for the generated electric energy. At the same time such systems are used in regions with high solar irradiance and also harsh environmental conditions. Therefore, designs for photovoltaic inverters need to meet not only the key design criteria of high conversion efficiency but also need to be very robust and at the same time meet challenging cost targets. In this dissertation aspects concerning the lifetime and reliability of power semiconductors in photovoltaic central inverters are investigated. On key topic of the dissertation is the measurement of the voltage dependent failure rate due to cosmic radiation induced single-event-burnout of SiC and Si power semiconductors. The second topic is the development of a system level simulation to quantify the stress on the power semiconductors in a PV central inverters in various regions of the world. Further topics are the investigation of improved control concepts for the cooling system of PV central inverters and the monitoring of IGBT temperatures during converter operation.

This book provides the most up-to-date information on hybrid solar cell and solar thermal collectors, which are commonly referred to as Photovoltaic/Thermal (PV/T) systems. PV/T systems convert solar radiation into thermal and electrical energy to produce electricity, utilize more of the solar spectrum, and save space by combining the two structures to cover lesser area than two systems separately. Research in this area is growing rapidly and is highlighted within this book. The most current methods and techniques available to aid in overall efficiency, reduce cost and improve modeling and system maintenance are all covered. In-depth chapters present the background and basic principles of the technology along with a detailed review of the most current literature. Moreover, the book details design criteria for PV/T systems including residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Provides an objective and decisive source for the supporters of green and renewable source of energy Discusses and evaluates state-of-the-art PV/T system designs Proposes and recommends potential designs for future research on this topic

Solar power has become big business, with $131 billion invested in 2018, up from just $11.2 billion in 2004 but down from $171 billion in 2017 as unit costs fell. New installed capacity grew from 1.1GW in 2004 to about 107GW in 2018, a steady rise as solar begins to compete with fossil fuels on cost and to be built in nearly every country.This is a book for the solar workers of the future, a business book for those without a business or economics background and those simply curious about major shifts happening in the world energy economy. Key financial, economic and technical concepts are interspersed with the history of the first decade of cheap solar power, and the author's experience of being part of a successful startup in the clean energy sector.

This book presents a detailed description, analysis, comparison of the latest research and developments in photovoltaic energy. Discussing everything from semiconductors to system integration, and applying various advanced technologies to stand alone and electric utility interfaced in normal and abnormal operating conditions of PV systems, this book provides a thorough introduction to the topic. This book brings together research from around the world, covering the use of technologies such as embedded systems, the Internet of things and blockchain technologies for PV systems for different applications including controllers, solar trackers and cooling systems. The book is of interest to electronic and mechanical engineers, researchers and students in the field of photovoltaics.

This Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Special Report (IPCC-SRREN) assesses the potential role of renewable energy in the mitigation of climate change. It covers the six most important renewable energy sources - bioenergy, solar, geothermal, hydropower, ocean and wind energy - as well as their integration into present and future energy systems. It considers the environmental and social consequences associated with the deployment of these technologies, and presents strategies to overcome technical as well as non-technical obstacles to their application and diffusion. SRREN brings a broad spectrum of technology-specific experts together with scientists studying energy systems as a whole. Prepared following strict IPCC procedures, it presents an impartial assessment of the current state of knowledge: it is policy relevant but not policy prescriptive. SRREN is an invaluable assessment of the potential role of renewable energy for the mitigation of climate change for policymakers, the private sector, and academic researchers.

This book examines the problems in the field of energy and related fields (chemical, transport, aerospace, construction, metallurgy, engineering, etc.) and consists of 4 subsections: Electrical Engineering, Heat Power Engineering, Cybersecurity and Computer Science & Environmental Safety. In the first section, authors pay attention to contemporary issues related to the development of the electric power industry, electrical engineering, the physics of electrical phenomena and renewable energy sources (such as solar energy and wind energy). The second section is devoted to modern problems in heat power engineering and considers modern means and methods that increase the efficiency and reliability of the functioning of heat power facilities. The third section is devoted to issues of cybersecurity of critical facilities, in particular energy facilities, as well as the development of computer science and the introduction of modern information and measurement systems in the energy sector. The fourth subsection deals with the problems of rational use of natural resources, accounting for emissions of harmful substances, environmental issues at energy facilities, as well as the development of a methodology for environmental safety. The book includes 21 chapters. A book is for researchers, engineers, as well as lecturers and postgraduates of higher education institutions dealing with issues of control, diagnosis and monitoring of energy facilities.

Solar power for pumping groundwater has a vast potential for improving the sustainability of water supply schemes. However a lack of knowledge is holding back their adoption. This book bridges this gap to equip engineers and technicians with the knowledge for design, implementation and operation of sustainable solar powered water schemes.