Generation and combination of the solar cells: A current model review

Generally, first and second generations of photovoltaic (PV) cells are including mono-crystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, and dye-synthesized solar cells. Investigating the electrical current behavior of these sorts of PV cells shows that a modified multi- or single diode(s) model with shunt and series resistance can use as a good choice in a specific range of the current. For other constructions such as multi-junction PV cells that consist of the third generation, the network models are the best choice. Also, the network models can be used for the first and second generations to improve the validity of model in the wider range of current. In addition to existing generations, PV array and modules, which are serial and parallel arrays of PV cells, will lead to a higher current or voltage. The main disadvantage of using these sorts of systems is their more space occupation. This problem can be solved by using the concentrated PV (CPV) systems that focus the received irradiation on a smaller surface. By considering the generated current, voltage, power, temperature effect, and financial analysis, it seems third-generation PV systems are more efficient among all the generations. Finally, by considering the ratio of generated current on the occupied space, the CPV systems will be a better choice.