What is the potential for 1 $/W MJ solar cell modules?

The potential for <1 $/W MJ solar cell modules exists for III–V based devices if new technologies such as high-speed deposition, Si-based tandem solar cells, or the use of concentration are employed with high efficiency and manufacturability.

What is a III-V multi-junction solar cell?

III–V multi-junction solar cells are manufactured on 6-in. wafers and subsequently interconnected in series to form a module. The promise of thin-film tandem cells to which all but the silicon-based tandems aspire, is to expand the substrate size significantly, ideally coating an entire sheet of module glass.

What are MJ solar cells made of?

Other MJ solar cells composed of II–VI, chalcopyrite, kesterite compound, and perovskite solar cells are thought to have similar potential as III–V compound MJ solar cells.

Are high-voltage junctions suitable for tandem solar cells?

While low-cost solar cell materials are desirable for tandem solar cells, only high-voltage junctions, as quantified by the ERE, 26,146 with well-chosen bandgaps matched to the application spectra will be helpful for surpassing the efficiency of single-junction silicon.

What are the operating principles of MJ solar cells?

The operating principles of MJ solar cells were suggested by Jackson 9 as long ago as 1955, and they have been investigated since 1960. 10 This concept was most successfully implemented in III–V compound semiconductor solar cells, since a compound semiconductor has a good range of lattice parameters and bandgaps to choose from.

Which semiconductor materials are best for multi-junction solar cells?

The III–V semiconductor materials provide a relatively convenient system for fabricating multi-junction solar cells providing semiconductor materials that effectively span the solar spectrum as demonstrated by world record efficiencies (39.2% under one-sun and 47.1% under concentration) for six-junction solar cells.