Performance of front contact silicon solar cells under concentration

The first realization of a new type of silicon solar cell intended for operation at very high concentration, with all the contacts at its front face, is presented. Although the efficiencies achieved are not outstanding, the feasibility of the structure is proven by the fabrication of several thousands of cells with similar performance. Modeling has evidenced the main routes for improvement. Efficiencies close to 25% for a range of efficiencies from 80 to 560 suns are predicted as achievable for cells with state-of-the-art technology and appropriate layout. Copyright (C) 2004 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.