Third generation multi-layer tandem solar cells for achieving high conversion efficiencies

Different ways of connecting solar cell structures to form multi-layer tandem solar cells have been considered by re-visiting relevant device designs. It is found that the present use of a series connection or tunnel junction approach is detrimental to charge-carrier collection in the tandem cells. Each tunnel junction introduced to the solar cell structure decelerates the charge carriers and allows them to recombine at the vicinity of the tunnel junction. The adoption of parallel connections has several advantages over series connections and there is high potential for achieving enhanced efficiencies in third generation tandem solar cells. In these devices, charge carriers are continuously accelerated across the whole device and collected in the external circuit. Multi charge-carrier production and impurity photo-voltaic mechanisms are also built into this system to enhance its performance by increasing the short-circuit current density. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.