Solar cell materials, technologies, applications and their impact on developing countries

Ecological concern is growing as the world approaches the twenty–first century. The widening gap between electricity demand and generation, especially in developing and newly industrialised countries, is increasing the pressure for increased power generation. This will result in staggering amounts of air pollution if the world continues to depend on oil and fossil fuels. The development of clean energy sources has thus become an important task in arresting gas emissions and in protecting the Earth's eco–system. This article reviews the place of solar photovoltaic technology in the quest for clean energy.