From Crystalline to Low-cost Silicon-based Solar Cells: a Review

Renewable energy has become an auspicious alternative to fossil fuel resources due to its sustainability and renewability. In this respect, Photovoltaics (PV) technology is one of the essential technologies. Today, more than 90 % of the global PV market relies on crystalline silicon (c-Si)-based solar cells. This article reviews the dynamic field of Si-based solar cells from high-cost crystalline to low-cost cells and investigates how to preserve high possible efficiencies while decreasing the cost. First, we discuss the various types of c-Si solar cells with different device architectures and report recent developments. Next, thin-film solar cells with their recent advancements are given. Then, Si nanowires solar cells and their recent results are discussed. Finally, we present the most encouraging tendencies in achieving low-cost solar cells utilizing cheap materials like heavily doped silicon wafers.

Automated summary

Renewable energy, particularly photovoltaic technology, is transitioning from high-cost crystalline silicon cells to low-cost options. This review article discusses various types of c-Si solar cells, recent advancements in thin-film solar cells, and developments in Si nanowire solar cells. The focus is on achieving low-cost solar cells while maintaining high efficiencies using materials like heavily doped silicon wafers.