Solar cells are the devices that convert light energy into electrical energy and are an integral part of the renewable energy sector. As technology advances, the solar cell industry is constantly evolving, leading to the development of multi-junction solar cells. In this blog, we will take a deep dive into what multi-junction solar cells are, how they work, and why they are considered as the future of solar energy.
Multi-junction solar cells are a type of photovoltaic (PV) cell that consist of multiple layers of semiconductor materials. Each layer is optimized to absorb a different range of the light spectrum, allowing the cell to absorb a wider range of light energy and increase the overall efficiency. In contrast, traditional single-junction solar cells only contain one layer of material and are limited to absorbing a narrow range of light.
The working principle of multi-junction solar cells is based on the concept of bandgap energy. The bandgap energy is the minimum amount of energy required to free an electron from its orbit and allow it to move freely in the material. Different materials have different bandgap energies, and different light wavelengths correspond to different amounts of energy.
Multi-junction solar cells have multiple layers of different materials, each with a different bandgap energy. When light enters the cell, it is absorbed by the top layer, which has the highest bandgap energy. The absorbed energy frees electrons from the material, and they flow freely to the next layer, which has a lower bandgap energy. This process continues until all the electrons have reached the bottom layer, and the electrical energy is collected and converted into usable power.
Multi-junction solar cells have several advantages over traditional single-junction solar cells, making them the future of solar energy. Some of the key benefits include:
Increased Efficiency:Multi-junction solar cells have a much higher efficiency compared to traditional single-junction solar cells. This is due to the ability of multi-junction cells to absorb a wider range of light energy, resulting in a higher conversion rate.
Improved Performance:Multi-junction solar cells perform better in low-light conditions and perform better in high temperatures, making them ideal for use in harsh environments.
Cost-Effective:Despite the higher cost of manufacturing multi-junction solar cells, their increased efficiency and performance make them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
Space and Weight Savings: Multi-junction solar cells are lighter and smaller than traditional single-junction solar cells, making them ideal for use in space applications and other weight-sensitive applications.
Durability: Multi-junction solar cells are more durable than traditional single-junction solar cells and can withstand extreme temperatures and other harsh environmental conditions.
The manufacturing process of multijunction solar cells typically involves several steps, including:
Growth of the semiconductor material: The semiconductor material is grown in a controlled environment using methods such as molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) or metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD).
Deposition of the metal contacts: Metal contacts are deposited on the surface of the semiconductor material to allow for electrical connection to the rest of the circuit.
Formation of the p-n junctions: The p-n junctions are formed by doping the semiconductor material with impurities to create an electric field. This is done using a variety of techniques, such as ion implantation or diffusion.
Assembly of the solar cell: The solar cell is assembled by connecting the metal contacts to the p-n junctions and encapsulating the cell in a protective material to prevent damage from environmental factors.
Testing and quality control: The completed solar cell is tested to ensure it meets specifications and quality standards, including efficiency and stability.
Each step of the process must be carefully controlled and optimized to produce high-quality, efficient multijunction solar cells. The exact process may vary depending on the specific materials and technology used, but the overall goal is to create a solar cell with multiple layers of semiconductor material that can capture and convert a wide range of solar radiation into electrical energy.
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As of 2021, the highest efficiency of multi-junction solar cells is 46.1%, which was achieved by a team of researchers from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in the United States.
|
Feature |
Single Junction Solar Cells |
Multijunction Solar Cells |
|
Efficiency |
15-20% |
40-50% |
|
Cost |
Low |
High |
|
Material |
Silicon |
Multiple semiconducting materials |
|
Design |
Simple |
Complex |
|
Spectral response |
Limited to specific range |
Broad spectral response |
|
Temperature sensitivity |
High |
Low |
|
Lifetime |
Moderate |
Long |
Note: The above data is based on average and may vary based on the specific product and technology used.
In conclusion, multi-junction solar cells are the future of solar energy due to their increased efficiency, improved performance, cost-effectiveness, space and weight savings, and durability. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see further improvements in multi-junction solar cell technology, leading to even greater efficiency and performance. If you're looking to invest in renewable energy, consider investing in multi-junction solar cells with Waaree Energies. Call now at 18002121321 or Email at waaree@waaree.com to start/advance your solar journey.
Also Read more information : Solar cells: What is the future?
