In a significant stride towards sustainable and efficient solar energy, researchers have unveiled a novel approach to enhance the performance of thin-film solar cells. The study, led by Muhammad Hassan Yousuf from the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Engineering and Technology Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, focuses on incorporating non-toxic materials to improve the efficiency of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells. Published in the journal Nano Select, which translates to Nano Choice, the research presents a promising avenue for the energy sector.
The team investigated the use of a non-toxic p-type Cu2O layer as a back-contact hole collector and a wide-bandgap Zn(O,S) buffer layer as the n-type material. These innovations aim to address the limitations of traditional solar cells, which often rely on toxic materials like CdS. “The incorporation of Cu2O and Zn(O,S) layers not only enhances the hole conduction at the rear contact but also reduces parasitic absorption losses, significantly boosting the photocurrent in the UV spectrum,” explains Yousuf.
The simulations conducted in the study revealed a substantial improvement in current density, reaching 36.8 mA/cm2 compared to 33.2 mA/cm2 in a reference cell using a Zn(O,S) buffer layer and no Cu2O. This enhancement translates to a notable increase in the solar cell’s conversion efficiency, from 22.11% to 25.35%. The improved efficiency is attributed to the p-type nature of Cu2O, which facilitates better hole conduction, and the larger bandgap of Zn(O,S), which minimizes absorption losses.
The commercial implications of this research are profound. As the energy sector increasingly shifts towards renewable sources, the demand for efficient and environmentally friendly solar cells is on the rise. The proposed design offers a pathway to developing high-efficiency thin-film solar cells that are both sustainable and cost-effective. “This research demonstrates the potential of Cu2O as a promising back-contact hole collector and highlights the benefits of substituting CdS with Zn(O,S),” Yousuf adds.
The findings not only pave the way for advancements in solar cell technology but also align with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of energy production. By eliminating toxic materials and enhancing efficiency, this research could shape the future of solar energy, making it a more viable and sustainable option for widespread adoption.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, innovations like these are crucial in driving the transition towards a cleaner and more efficient energy landscape. The study published in Nano Select serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to harness the power of solar energy more effectively, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future.