CONFERENCE TOPICS

Topic 1 collects all abstracts dealing with crystalline silicon up to cell level. Amorphous and microcrystalline silicon are covered in subtopics 1.2 and 1.3. The whole spectrum of Si technology is divided into 5 subtopics that address typical issues and fields of technology development, including directly related aspects of sustainability, many of them at the corporate R&D level.

An exception is tandem structures that combine other materials with silicon, which are grouped in subtopics 2.1 (Perovskite-based Tandems and Multijunctions) and 2.3 (Compound and Organic Semiconductors). Contributions which focus on the encapsulation and reliability of Si modules or electrical performance measurement technologies are better placed in Topic 3. Also, concentrator and space applications of silicon PV are placed in Subtopic 4.6.

This topic is divided into the different photovoltaic materials currently used or in the concept or demonstration phase that are not based on silicon. An exception is tandem structures combining other materials with silicon, which are grouped in subtopics 2.1 (Perovskite-based Tandems and Multijunctions) and 2.3 (Compound and Organic Semiconductors).

The topic comprises theoretical studies, innovations in processing and manufacturing technologies as well as upscaling, measurement and characterisation. If the paper describes encapsulation at module level, it is better to submit under Subtopic 3.1. For materials which don’t fall under any of the materials listed in subtopics 2.1 to 2.3, consider subtopics 2.4 and 2.5, which collect contributions from ongoing cutting-edge research into understanding photovoltaic conversion, including new materials and cross-fertilisation with other fields of optoelectronics. Space applications of PV are placed in Subtopic 4.6 (Other Innovative PV Applications; PV in Space).

This topic addresses different aspects PV modules. PV module work is divided into three subtopics 3.1-3.3, which broadly deal with manufacturing, reliability and performance, respectively. This topic is the home for all PV technologies (e.g., Si, perovskite, CIGS, CdTe etc.) when dealt with at module level. The previous Balance of System (BoS) components subtopic is now located in Subtopic 4.2.

Contributions submitted under this topic should relate to research, development, design, measurement, modelling, testing and operational experience. Papers that deal with general aspects of sustainability, such as disposal, recycling and resource issues are dealt with in topic 5 (e.g., Subtopic 5.2: Sustainability of PV), but specific technical solutions addressing sustainability belong here.

This topic addresses individual PV plants, where plant size can range from a few modules to multi-mw systems. Consequently, this is the place for contributions on systems design, sizing, modelling, performance and operations. This topic is also about integration of PV; e.g., PV integrated into buildings (BIPV), infrastructure integrated PV (i2pv), floating PV and vehicle integrated PV (VIPV). Agri-PV has now its own specific subtopic 4.5. Concentrator PV and space applications of PV are located in Subtopic 4.6. Specific technical solutions addressing sustainability at system level should also be submitted here.

The subtopic on solar resources and forecasting is relevant to individual systems and covers scales ranging from the local to large geographical areas. The employment of batteries in stand-alone systems or for local use may form part of systems reported in this topic, but storage related to the comprehensive energy system is dealt with in Subtopic 5.1. Advances in power electronics for advanced grid functionality are also dealt with in Subtopic 5.1. The previous power converters and Balance of System (BoS) components subtopic in Topic 3 is now located in Subtopic 4.2.

This topic covers the broad spectrum of multidisciplinary efforts required to ensure the rapid deployment of PV technologies on a large and global scale as a key technology of the energy transition and the broader ecological transition. As such it covers a range of aspects, ranging from integration of large quantities of PV generated electricity into the energy system, including storage. Other topics include ensuring that the sustainable and ecological implementation of PV, through financing, market development and policy making as well as addressing and ensuring societal acceptance of the role of PV in a just energy transition.

Papers that deal with essential aspects of sustainability, such as disposal, recycling, and resource issues as well as PV in the circular economy are dealt with in Subtopic 5.2 sustainability of PV. Sustainable design and manufacturing is a key concern for the entire PV ecosystem, and hence specific technological improvements that have a sustainability objective (such as reducing material use or improving recyclability) nevertheless belong in their specific subtopic.