Outstanding conversion efficiency of 38.39% from a Perovskite/CIGS tandem PV cell: A synergic optimization through...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Renewable Energy Technologies
• Photovoltaics

Background:

• Development of efficient and stable lead-free perovskite solar cells is crucial for sustainable energy.
• Tandem solar cells offer a pathway to exceed the efficiency limits of single-junction devices.
• All-inorganic materials are desirable for enhanced stability and reduced environmental impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, simulate, and optimize an all-inorganic lead-free tandem photovoltaic (PV) cell.
• To achieve high power conversion efficiency (PCE) using a CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3 perovskite top cell and a CIGS bottom cell.
• To explore the potential of novel material combinations for next-generation solar energy.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the SCAPS-1D simulator for designing and optimizing the tandem PV cell structure.
• Independently simulated the top (CsSn0.5Ge0.5I3/ZnO/NiO) and bottom (CIGS/Spiro-OMeTAD/TiO2) sub-cells.
• Optimized absorber layer thicknesses to achieve current matching between the sub-cells.

Main Results:

• Achieved an outstanding overall power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 38.39%.
• Obtained a Fill Factor (FF) of 83.4% and an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 2.48 V.
• Short-circuit current density (Jsc) reached 18.64 mA cm-2, outperforming current literature.

Conclusions:

• The designed all-inorganic lead-free tandem PV cell demonstrates exceptional performance.
• The optimized structure offers a viable route for developing low-cost and highly efficient inorganic perovskite tandem solar cells.
• This work is expected to significantly contribute to the advancement of future photovoltaic technologies.