Photovoltaics is a broad, interdisciplinary field of study. On the one hand, students need a good knowledge of materials physics and interactions with incident light, optimisation of cell structures, and anti-reflection coatings, in order to understand the physical structure of different types of solar cells. Many technological processes are used in the fabrication of solar cells and photovoltaic modules. Applications of photovoltaics involve a good knowledge of the characteristics, the relations between load and maximum power output, and the influence on cell efficiency of operating conditions, especially cell temperature. Students should have a sound knowledge of power and control electronics. As the output power of photovoltaic systems depends on temporary solar irradiation, some basic knowledge of solar physics and meteorology are very important, along with an understanding of problems of local shading, etc.

Individual aspects of photovoltaics may be studied separately and in isolation. Photovoltaic materials, cell physics, cell and module technology are studied by physicists, chemists and technologists, converters are studied by electrical engineers. Architects, designers and utility engineers take a special interest in PV system applications, but are less interested in problems of materials and technology. However, each of these topics forms parts of a single system, in which the economic aspects of the individual disciplines must be taken into account.

On the other hand, isolated aspects of a general course on renewable energy sources will not provide a sufficient understanding of the range of interconnected problems in this field. The education system must combine the appropriate information and bring out the relationship between scientific knowledge and everyday life. Apart from the universities, many other institutions can contribute to studies of photovoltaics, at various levels. Such an education programme requires teachers with extended

knowledge. Teachers need to be specially educated to deliver courses and classes that will meet the economic and social demands of the development of photovoltaics.