Harnessing the Sun - A Conversation with Jenny Nelson

This book is based on an in-depth conversation between Howard Burton and Jenny Nelson, Professor of Physics and Head of the Climate Change mitigation team at the Grantham Institute at Imperial College London. After inspiring insights about Jenny Nelson’s academic journey, the conversation examines different solar energy processes, solar energy conversion technology, novel varieties of material for use in solar cells, and the materials used to build and improve photovoltaic, and other renewable, technologies, which convert energy from the sun into electricity. This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, Making A Difference, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter: I. Finding Her Place - The wanderings of a socially-conscious physicist II. Solar Energy - The big picture III. Materials - An array of different possibilities IV. Models vs. Labs - An intriguing balance V. Real-World Impact - Getting from here to there VI. A Brighter Future? - Hopefully About Ideas Roadshow Conversations: This book is part of a series of 100 Ideas Roadshow Conversations. Presented in an accessible, conversational format, Ideas Roadshow books not only explore frontline academic research featuring world-leading researchers but also reveal the inspirations and personal journeys behind the research.