A new professional research network will contribute to boost European photovoltaic industry
The creation of a specialized network for interdisciplinary training of researchers in advanced thin films photovoltaic (PV) technologies will represent a major boost for European research in this area. The proposed network is one of the objectives set forth within the EU funded Kestcells project.
The Kestcells project aims at developing new technologies that will allow photovoltaics to be a technically acceptable alternative to non-renewable energy sources. Researchers responsible for the project point out that one of the major problems to ensure a competitive European photovoltaic industry remains on the shortage of trained professionals in this field. This will be one of the issues to be tackled by this project funded with €3.7 million under Specific Programme People of the Seventh Framework Programme.
In order to address that problem a training network will be put in place so that the European photovoltaic industry will continue to lead in solar energy. According to the project managers, this network will enable the strategic development of photovoltaic technologies in Europe, in line with the objectives set by the European Commission in its Action Plan for photovoltaic technology.
Twelve doctoral students and two postdocs researchers will be trained over the course of the project in different aspects related to fundamental materials science, advanced growth techniques in thin film technologies, techniques for advanced characterisation and process monitoring, modelling and design of devices. The training programme will also include some aspects on the industrial applications of research results and market analysis.