Publications

Research outputs, reports, policy briefs and knowledge products from KIU scholars and partners.

2024 School of Engineering and Applied Sciences INOSR Experimental Sciences

Revolutionizing Energy Harvesting: Harnessing Ambient Solar Energy for Enhanced Electric Power Generation

Mundu, M. M.1, Nnamchi, S. N2 and Ssempewo, J. I.3

The escalating demand for sustainable and renewable energy sources has propelled the exploration of ambient solarenergy as a pivotal avenue for cleaner power generation. This review paper delves into the intricacies of solar energyharvesting technologies, providing a comprehensive analysis of principles, efficiency metrics, materialadvancements, and versatile applications. Focusing on the photovoltaic effect as the cornerstone of solar cells, thecritical impact of semiconductor material selection and bandgap engineering on efficiency is thoroughly examined.Key performance measures such as fill factor, open-circuit voltage, and short-circuit current are emphasized for theirpivotal role in evaluating system efficiency. The adaptability of solar energy solutions is exemplified through diverseapplications, spanning from portable electronics to large-scale solar farms. Looking towards the future, this reviewenvisions a promising trajectory for solar energy harvesting, driven by continual advancements in technology,material science, and efficiency measures. The insights gleaned from this comprehensive examination are poised tocatalyze the development of more efficient and accessible solar energy harvesting technologies. This, in turn,promises to play a significant role in the global transition towards a greener and more sustainable energy landscape,contributing substantively to sustainability, climate mitigation, and an enhanced quality of life worldwide.