Strategies for Efficient Exploitation of Solar Energy: A Model of the Photovoltaic Conversion Process Based on TRIZ, the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving

While PV has been developing dramatically in the last few years, the scope for improving energy conversion remains enormous, as witnessed by gap between the efficiency of commercial products (10-20%) and a theoretical potential for reaching over 60%. In this context it is important to be able to horizon-scan for new and improved concepts in a systematic and structured way. The Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (also known as TRIZ) has been applied to analyse the PV conversion process, taking a c-Si cell as the baseline scenario. Comparison of several innovative concepts with this baseline highlights their potential impact on loss mechanisms. The approach has the potential to provide important insights for future PV technology innovation, although further work is needed.