Philippa Hardy

Graduated with an interdisciplinary MSc/PhD in the Doctoral Training Centre for Low Carbon Technologies

Thesis: Nanocrystal activated Schottky barrier solar PV cell

Dr Philippa Hardy’s research was on fabricating and characterising a novel nanocrystal solar cell. The aim of the research was to develop a new solar cell architecture that could reduce the cost, life cycle emissions, and with further work, increase the efficiency of solar cells. Her work demonstrated a functioning nanocrystal activated Schottky barrier solar cell using ambient processes and a variety of materials.

The Schottky junction solar cells were made with titanium dioxide and a transparent metal layer of platinum, gold and silver nanowires. In the absence of activating nanocrystals, the Schottky barrier functions as an efficient cell but only for UV light due to the wide band gap of TiO2. Nanocrystals with a narrower band gap were deposited on the Schottky barrier to extend the response into the visible region.

The optimum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of a Schottky device was 18% at 330 nm. The Schottky barrier cells were subsequently activated with CdS, CdSe, CuO, CuInS2 and CdTe nanocrystals. The nanocrystal cells provided proof-of-concept, generating a UV photoresponse from the TiO2 and a visible photoresponse from the nanocrystals consistent with the respective band gaps.

Philippa is now an analyst at Delta Energy and Environment, a small consultancy based in Edinburgh with global operations in low carbon decentralised heat and power. The company carries out market analysis, techno-economic analysis, business strategy, competitive analysis and forecasts for product manufacturers, utilities and policy makers. They have seven annual subscription research services and also carry out ad-hoc consultancy projects. Philippa’s company currently work on the Delta-ee Microgeneration Insight service which provides primary research with key customer groups (home owners, developers, social landlords) and in depth market analysis on the UK microgen market.