Photovoltaically supplied devices of low and intermediate power range

In 1986, a project supported by the German Ministry for Research and Technology was started by ISE to systematically increase the application of photovoltaics. Over a period of five years, suitable products are being identified and appropriate photovoltaic power supplies are being developed in co-operation with industrial companies. The objectives of this project, the framework of the co-operation between industrial companies and the institute and our experience to date are discussed briefly. The specific requirements for small-scale and indoor photovoltaic systems are described in more detail. For indoor applications it is necessary to determine the I-V characteristics of solar cells and modules under extremely low irradiation, to record the indoor irradiation resp. the indoor illumination and to select an appropriate storage battery. Examples of some innovative small power systems will be presented. (ISE)