Design and Simulation of a Novel Mechanically-Stacked Solar Cell

Abstract

A novel 2-Terminal, 3-Cell, Mechanical-Stack (2T3CMS) is designed and simulated in Silvaco Atlas to overcome instrinsic limitations of state-of-the-art designs. Indium-Gallium-Phosphide, Gallium-Arsenide and Germanium back-contact solar cells are current-matched and connected in series to achieve 32.5% and 29.2% power conversion efficiency at AM1.5G and AM0 (300 K), respectively. Two-terminal operation permits a variety of series and/or parallel-connection topologies for module operation. Research is underway to improve efficiency through the use of optimal bandgap materials.