Optimisation of Top Electrode of a Solar Cell using 3D Distributed Circuit Models

Abstract

In the solar cell module there is a strong correlation between optical and electrical losses. Ideally all the incoming light should be converted to electrical energy and collected by the metal contacts. However, placing metal on the top of the solar cell decreases the fill factor and hence the efficiency of the solar cell. In this paper the analytical and 3D distributed model is presented for top metal grid optimisation for AlGaAs/Si tandem solar cell. 3D distributed model for AlGaAs/Si tandem solar cell, with different grid pattern, is investigated. Results using models are obtained by SPICE simulator. The results of distributed model are compared with the results of analytical model. Power losses due to base resistance of a solar cell are also included in analytical model.

Keywords:

• Tandem solar cells
• PSpice
• short circuit current
• open circuit voltage
• metal grid optimisation