Fabrication ZnO:Al/Si Solar Cell Prepared by Thermal Evaporation

When people think about renewable energy, the first image that comes to mind is often large blue or black solar panels on rooftops or portable highway signs that have a small panel attached. These solar panels, also known as photovoltaic modules, convert sunlight into electricity, and they have been the backbone of renewable energy for decades. The Photovoltaic Effect was discovered over a hundred years ago! Yet widespread implementation of this technology has been very gradual. Only in very recent years has photovoltaic gained wide popularity as an alternative way to produce electricity. In 1958 the first PV modules were launched into space to power satellites. Even today, solar power is the primary source of energy at the International Space Station. On Earth as well, PV has traditionally been used in areas where there is no practical source of electrical power but there is abundant sunshine. Solar panels are often used for remote applications: like powering cabins, RVs, boats and small electronics when grid service is not available. Recently, solar electric systems have started gaining momentum as a cost-effective way to incorporate solar electricity into our everyday lives.