Progress in Thin Film Solar Cell and Advanced Technologies for Performance Improvement

Abstract

This review article summarizes the recent development in chalcopyrite and kesterite, based thin film solar cell. The thin film solar cell have always been compared with the bulk technologies for their lower conversion efficiency. But recent advancement in the fabrication of thin film solar cell using sputtering, molecular beam epitaxy, metal organic chemical vapor deposition etc., counterbalanced the conversion efficiency. The major developments in chalcopyrite and kesterite thin film solar cell are linked to composition grading, alkali post-deposition treatment, surface passivation, buffers enhancements are emphasized. Furthermore, development and opportunities offered by flexible and lightweight CIGS modules are also reviewed. In addition, recent improvements and emerging concepts such as multi-junction and multiple quantum well intended for higher efficiencies and novel applications for solar cells are reviewed. Besides this, the multi-junction solar cell targeted for concentrated application are also reviewed, as concentration leads to additional improvement in the conversion efficiency. © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.