Perovskite-based tandem solar cells: Device architecture, stability, and economic perspectives

Abstract

Perovskite (PK)-based tandem solar cells (TSCs) are an emergent photovoltaic (PV) technology with potential to surpass the Shockley–Queisser theoretical limit of efficiency (η) of single-junction (SJ) silicon solar cells. The promising efficiency of PK/Si-TSCs > 29% indicates the potential of next-generation PV technology as efficiencies of approximately 45% could be achieved through complete optimization of the optical and electrical parameters of PK/Si-TSCs. To establish a technological roadmap for future research, it is necessary to review and discuss the future technological advancements and economic prospects concerning PK-based TSCs, as well as determine the economic impact. Here, the merits and demerits of different configurations of PK-based-TSCs are reviewed to determine the best design strategies for optical/electrical connection and light distribution between the top and bottom sub-cells. The current status and recent advances in both two- and four-terminal PK/Si tandems are discussed, along with the technological approaches employed and the maximum η achieved. Additionally, the three-terminal tandem configuration and how it solves the current mismatch in the two-terminal configuration and the optical losses in four-terminal architecture are summarized. Future technological developments and economic prospects of PK-based TSCs are discussed. The PK/Si heterojunction (SHJ)-TSC-based PVs were found to cause similar or less environmental impact than c-Si PVs, along with the possibility of further improving the environmental outcome by replacing the SHJ with SJ-Si (p-n homojunction) bottom sub-cell. Additionally, by further reducing the levelized cost of electricity, TSCs fabricated with mc-Si are likely to have strong economic prospects.