Modeling of two-junction, series-connected tandem solar cells using top-cell thickness as an adjustable parameter
- Solar Energy Research Institute, 1617 Cole Boulevard, Golden, Colorado 80401 (USA)
Theoretical efficiencies are calculated for two-junction, series-connected solar cells using air mass 1.5 global and direct irradiance spectra. For band-gap combinations previously limited by a low bottom-cell current, thinning of the top cell is shown to result in significant increases in the theoretical efficiencies. The increases are primarily due to increased short-circuit currents, since current matching is achievable. Smaller gains are also seen in the open-circuit voltages of the thinner cells when a low surface-recombination velocity is assumed. Thus, a number of material combinations which previously could only be used in four-terminal configurations can now be considered for series-connected two-junction solar cells.
- OSTI ID:
- 6467195
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Applied Physics; (USA), Vol. 68:4; ISSN 0021-8979
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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