Product Description
Practical Photovoltaics, the now-classic reference on solar electricity, offers a unique combination of technical discussion and practical advice. Physicist, lecturer, and solar-home dweller Richard Komp explains the "how" and the "how-to" of PV, while providing valuable information on the industry, new developments, and the future. The book is a comprehensive guide to the theory and reality of solar electricity, as well as a detailed installation and maintenance manual. A well-illustrated appendix offers step-by-step instructions for constructing your own solar module, a creative approach to demystifying the technology. Presented in a clear, concise, and understandable style, Dr. Komp's contribution to PV literature has been called the "best single reference available," "the easiest and most complete education on photovoltaics," "one of the best basic books on PV," and "the best of the books."

CUSTOMER REVIEWS (Average Customer Rating: 4.0 based on 8 reviews)

Thanks by Gilberto S. Naranjo

4 Stars
November 02, 2009
I had the oportunity of read this book. It is easy to understand and I had the book right on time. Thanks.

Somewhat Technical by G. Thomas

3 Stars
October 11, 2009
I won't pick on the book too much because if you are interested in the chemical composition of photovoltaic systems you will find this interesting. I personally thought I was getting something which talked about practical applications, and not so much the transport of electrons in crystaline substances. If you are looking at the possibility of applying solar at home then looks somewhere else. If you need a history lesson on the start of solar electric then this isn't a bad book at all. Although it appears a little dated and the pictures aren't that inspiring, if your wondering how photovoltaic cells work on an atomic level you'll love this.

photovoltaic science for the layman by J. Stiles (Mt. Shasta , CA)

5 Stars
March 08, 2009
This is the best book on PhotoVoltaics I've found yet. Comprehensive, thorough, yet simple enough for the layman - without being too simple. I'd recommend this book for anyone who is interested in the coming green revolution in energy production.

Good for beginners by Paolo Giai Miniet (Turin, ITALY)

4 Stars
November 08, 2008
If you decide to begin understand how photovoltaics works without digging immediately in deep details, I suggest you this book. The subjects of the book spread from the solar cells principles of working, to the several applications they may have to the industrial process of making them. All this, without entering in deeper details. To me, as a beginner, it has been useful and really appreciated.

Practical Photovoltaics: Electricity from Solar Cells by Ann Luisi (New York, NY)

5 Stars
October 08, 2008
I recommend this book to anyone interested in a basic yet comprehensive guide to photovoltaic technology, the PV industry and practical applications of PV. This book contains detailed explanations about the installation and maintenance of solar electricity clearly explained in layman's language by its author, Dr. Richard Komp. It even has an illustrated appendix with step-by-step instructions on how to construct your very own solar module so you will better grasp PV technology. I found it to be an excellent reference source on the subject.

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