Surpassing Shockley–Queisser Efficiency Limit in Photovoltaic Cells
Zhigang Li, Bingqing Wei
Abstract
The Shockley-Queisser (S-Q) model sets a theoretical limit on the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of single-junction solar cells at around 33%. Recently, a PCE of 50%-60% was achieved for the first time in n-type single-junction Si solar cells by inhibiting light conversion to heat at low temperatures. Understanding these new observations opens tremendous opportunities for designing solar cells with even higher PCE to provide efficient and powerful energy sources for cryogenic devices and outer and deep space explorations.
Topics & Concepts
Photovoltaic systemEnergy conversion efficiencyLimit (mathematics)Materials scienceOptoelectronicsEnergy transformationPower (physics)Engineering physicsElectrical engineeringPhysicsEngineeringThermodynamicsMathematical analysisMathematicssolar cell performance optimizationSilicon and Solar Cell TechnologiesNanowire Synthesis and Applications