Novel Photovoltaic Systems

We have a major interest in developing alternative energy systems. One of our research areas at present is developing large scale solar power systems.There are two aspects to this:

• the development of the electronics required to harness the energy from the solar cells and convert it efficiently so that it can be used on a power grid;
• the development of novel types of solar cell using amorphous carbon and amorphous silicon. The work on amorphous silicon solar cells is headed by my colleague Professor Bill Milne.

One of the problems with solar cells at present is that they provide a variable energy source (depending on whether the sun is out) and the electricity produced is DC. For normal useage on a power grid, the energy produced needs to be converted to a stable AC power supply. We are working on the electronics for connecting the solar cells to the power grid.This will provide a major boost to the use of solar cells as an energy source.

The results of this research will be used to build the UK's largest solar energy installation at the University's West Cambridge Site. The photovoltaic cells will be installed above a covered colonnade at the site and will also be used to produce hydrogen for use in an innovative transport scheme.

Head of the Electronics, Power and Energy Conversion Group

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