It was a beautiful day in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania today as photovoltaic specialists gathered from around the world for the opening of the 34th IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists 
Conference.
The program began today with a tradition of excellent tutorial lectures. Many of this year's attendees are new to the field, especially in today's environment of rapid growth of the PV industry. For those new to the community, and to those with years of experience, there was a lot to learn. Seven tutorials were presented to over 450 registered attendees including a full day Introduction to Photovoltaic Technologies, the Science and Technology of Organic Photovoltaics, Silicon Solar Cell Technology, Solar Cell Devices Their Physics and Characterization, Technology and Manufacturing of III-V Solar Cells and High Concentrating PV Systems, and Polycrystalline Thin Film Solar Cells. The tutorials once again proved to be excellent overviews of a variety of topics, techniques and technologies.
The day's events concluded with the joint PVSC/PV America Opening Reception, which was held in the atrium of the convention center. This area was originally the “headhouse” of the Reading Terminal train station in the Market Street area of downtown Philadelphia. The main entrance features a beautiful arched wooden roof supported on steel girders with staircases and fountains at one end where an entry leads to the remainder of the convention center. The roof is decorated with hanging sculpture and the floor provides a wide open space for gathering of large groups. Conference attendees enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres and an excellent selection of drinks, all free to the attendees. This was the backdrop for conversation and meeting of old friends and new.
