Efficiency Limits of Solar Cells

Abstract

—In this report basic considerations of limiting factors for solar cell efficiencies are described. After a recap of the most important aspects of a p-n junction, the working principle of a solar cell and the Shockley-Queisser limit are discussed. The ultimate efficiency for a single p-n junction solar cell is derived, as done by Shockley and Queisser, and the basic ideas for the derivation of the detailed balance limit are presented. Finally, ideas to reach efficiencies beyond the Shockley-Queisser limit are summarized.