Power conversion efficiency of non-equilibrium light absorption

Abstract

We deduce a novel expression for the non-equilibrium photochemical potential and the power conversion efficiency of non-equilibrium light absorption by a thermostated material. Application of our results for the case of electron migration from valence to conduction bands in photovoltaic cells allows us to accurately interpolate experimental results for the maximal efficiencies of Ge-, Si-, GaAs-based cells and the like.