Exploiting the Optical Limits of Thin-Film Solar Cells: A Review on Light Management Strategies in Cu(In,Ga)Se2

Light management strategies are of utmost importance to allow Cu(In,Ga)Se-2 (CIGS) technology market expansion, as it would enable a conversion efficiency boost as well as thinner absorber layers, increasing sustainability and reducing production costs. However, fabrication and architecture constraints hamper the direct transfer of light management architectures from other photovoltaic technologies. The demand for light management in thin and ultrathin CIGS cells is analyzed by a critical description of the optical loss mechanisms in these devices. Three main pathways to tackle the optical losses are identified: front light management architectures that assist for an omnidirectional low reflection; rear architectures that enable an enhanced optical path length; and unconventional spectral conversion strategies for full spectral harvesting. An outlook over the challenges and developments of light management architectures is performed, establishing a research roadmap for future works in light management for CIGS technology. Following the extensive review, it is expected that combining antireflection, light trapping, and conversion mechanisms, a 27% CIGS solar cell can be achieved.

Automated summary

Light management is crucial for the expansion of CIGS technology market, as it can improve conversion efficiency and reduce costs. However, there are fabrication and architecture constraints that hinder the direct transfer of light management strategies from other photovoltaic technologies. This study analyzes the demand for light management in thin and ultrathin CIGS cells and identifies three main pathways to tackle optical losses. The review provides insights into the challenges and developments of light management architectures, presenting a research roadmap for future works in this area.