Enhanced semiconductor carrier generation via microscale radiative transfer : MPC--an electric power finance instrument policy : interrelated innovations in emerging energy technologies

Abstract

This thesis is about a potential new energy technology MTPV and a related potential new energy policy MPC. MTPV is an electronic device concept for the conversion of heat or light to electricity using existing and emerging microelectronic technology. MPC is a financial instrument based energy policy which could both foster the emergence of new energy technologies such as MTPV and could also provide a framework for transitions between existing and emerging energy technologies including MTPV. The MTPV (Microscale Thermophotovoltaic) device concept relies upon the hypothesized phenomenon of Enhanced Semiconductor Carrier Generation Via Microscale Thermal Radiative Transfer. Should this phenomenon exist, it would suggest the possible feasibility of MTPVs as a new class of electronic devices for solid state energy conversion and the possible feasibility of a larger new class of related devices based on more extensive utilization of microelectronic technology than is currently employed in solid state energy conversion. This thesis reviews each of the foregoing and proposes an experimental procedure to test the hypothesis of Enhanced Semiconductor Carrier Generation Via Microscale Thermal Radiative Transfer. Innovation in energy technologies can arise from policy innovation as well as technological innovation. In energy, the two are often extensively intertwined. Such has been the case in the Electric Utility Industry as it has moved toward restructuring. MPC (Mortgage Backed Hybrid Power Purchase Contract) is a financial instrument based policy innovation which could aid in energy transitions such as the one occurring in Electric Power. It could also serve as a vehicle to facilitate the emergence of new technologies such as Photovoltaics, a broad field of which MTPV can be considered a part. This thesis formulates and reviews the MPC concept particularly in the context of Photovoltaics and the Electricity Sector; identifies MPC stakeholders and analyzes their interests; and reviews details of implementation to assess MPC policy feasibility.