ITW - International Teaching Week 2024

This course provides an in-depth exploration of photovoltaic (PV) technology, covering key engineering aspects, economic factors, and sustainability considerations. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of PV systems, from the basic principles to advanced innovations and their impact on global energy markets.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

• Grasp the fundamental principles of photovoltaic technology and key engineering aspects, including various types of PV cells and design innovations.
• Evaluate the economic factors of PV systems, encompassing cost analysis, market dynamics, and benefits.
• Analyze the sustainability aspects of PV systems, focusing on their carbon footprint, potential for carbon offsets, and lifecycle environmental impact.
• Discuss the influence of policy on PV adoption and learning curves.

Course Contents

• Introduction: Overview of photovoltaic technology, its significance in current and future energy systems, and economic considerations.
• Technology: Working principles, types of photovoltaic cells, and basics of engineering PV systems.
• Engineering: Material science and efficiency improvements in photovoltaic engineering.
• Economics: Costs, market dynamics, and return on investment for various PV systems.
• Integration: Standalone, grid-connected, rooftop, utility PV, and agricultural PV systems; benefits and challenges.
• Sustainability: Potential for carbon offsets and lifecycle environmental impact.
• Resilience: Supply chain and recycling aspects.
• Regulations: Policies, subsidies, international agreements, and learning curves.
• Outlook: Industry perspectives and supply chain analysis in Germany, USA, and other regions worldwide.