Photovoltaics for Commercial and Utilities Power Generation

In-depth review of the solar industry development emphasizing current and future applications of photovoltaic equipment in the commercial and utility energy sectors, and highlighting its use in large scale power generating plants operating in the U.S. deserts. Practical applications are also covered, focusing on large scale photovoltaics as a major alternative energy source. The author examines the advantages and disadvantages of each of today's solar technologies, and projects them into the future in search of optimized niche markets and maximum utilization. Key technical issues related to manufacturing and test procedures, product quality and safety, field performance, environmental impact, and other critical issues are thoroughly analyzed. Lack of standardized manufacturing processes and operating procedures, fluctuating political and regulatory policies, and the different financing, legal and marketing aspects of the solar industry are among the topics discussed in detail as well.