Solar photovoltaic (PV) reached the fourth place as a mean of generating electric power from renewable energy sources within the period 2000 – 2010, and is the fasted growing electrical energy production technology with a growth rate of 35 %. It will bypass bio-energy around 2012 being then the third largest electricity production technology just after hydropower and wind power. Accordingly, major research and development efforts are needed to utilise the full potential of solar power.
Both theoretical and experimental research is conducted related to the operation of solar PV power systems. Electrical properties of the systems are studied with respect to system topology, environmental conditions etc. Also grid interfacing of the power plant is studied as well as power electronics for interfacing devices. Research facilities include small scale solar light sources (solar simulators), electrical solar simulators and a 69 panel solar PV research plant equipped with comprehensive climatic and solar radiation measurement system.
Contact person: Prof.Seppo Valkealahti