What is the technological system of solar photovoltaics?

2. The technological system of solar photovoltaics The PV technological system is a power system comprises a sequence of interconnected components that work together to convert sunlight energy into electricity, utilize the generated energy, store it, or invert it ( Fig. 1 ).

Where are Energy Storage Technologies patented?

Internal energy storage techniques are mostly patented in Korea. The same holds for battery technologies in China and charging arrangements in Japan. Whereas a homogeneous distribution of lighting device patents is found across Japan, China, USA and Korea. Thermal devices are dominated by China, Korea and Germany. 4.5.

What is a PV technology system?

Portable devices The last group in the present definition of PV technological system comprises the portable devices powered by solar modules. Such devices represent complete systems of solar cells combined into panels and connected to electronic circuits and batteries for electrical energy storage.

Who invented thin-film photovoltaic module?

Under the title “ Fabrication of thin-film, flexible photovoltaic module ”, the University of Delaware (USA) in cooperation with three other American companies ( Microsoft Corp, Global Solar Energy Inc., and UD Technology Corp) has filed the most influential patent within the thin-film PV group in 2000 [ 86 ].

Are solar photovoltaics a sustainable alternative?

Against the pressing challenges of climate change and fossil fuel depletion, renewable energy sources such as solar photovoltaics (PV) are considered a clean and sustainable alternative. PV technologies have grown into a substantial field of research and development through large stocks of scientific publications and patents.

What is the relationship between the PV sector and patenting activities?

Besides its growing global trends, the significant relation between the PV sector and patenting activities can further be illustrated by two observations: The first is the numerous radical PV inventions that were initially filed in patents (e.g. Siemens reactor, HIT cells, and DSSC).