Introduction to photovoltaic technology

This chapter provides a concise overview of the developments in photovoltaic (PV) solar energy. It has taken nearly 60 years for the PV industry to develop into a multibillion business, and it will take further tens of years to reach trillion levels, which are needed in the realization of a society based on renewable energy sources. The complete volume presents a comprehensive overview of the status of PV technology. Finally, a guide to the reader is provided to facilitate retrieval of the information that the reader needs