ABSTRACT

Efficient and clean energy resources have been explored for energy

consumptions. Renewable energy is becoming increasingly impor-

tant since the limited fossil fuels are being depleted. In this chapter,

renewable energy in photovoltaics (PVs) and thermoelectrics (TEs)

will be discussed. Photovoltaic generators can absorb photons

to create charge carriers and generate electricity, while thermo-

electric generators can convert concentrated solar heat or other

forms of heat source to electricity. Nanotechnologies have been

developed to enhance the efficiencies of both types of renewable

energy applications. Due to the unique nanoscale characteristics,

nanomaterials, nanostructures, and nanoengineering can be used.

The fundamentals, fabrication methods, and device applications

related to nanotechnologies in photovoltaic and thermoelectric

power generation are presented.