Harnessing The Sun

This book is based on an in-depth filmed 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 an expanding series of 100+ Ideas Roadshow conversations, each one presenting a wealth of candid insights from a leading expert through a focused yet informal setting to give non-specialists a uniquely accessible window into frontline research and scholarship that wouldn't otherwise be encountered through standard lectures and textbooks.