Analyzing the Power Collection Efficiency of Solar Cells by Voltage-Dependent Luminescence Imaging

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Authors: Ernest I. Obetta, Jonathan Werner, Andreas Gerber, Vladimir Smirnov, Uwe Rau, Bart Elger Pieters
Cited by: 0

Abstract

In this study, we present a power-centric enhancement to current collection efficiency (CCE) mapping, introducing the concept ofpower collection efficiency(PCE). CCE, defined as the derivative of the cell current with respect to locally generated current, quantifies current transport efficiency (ranging from 0 to 1) to the device terminals. Traditionally, current efficiency maps are generated via electroluminescence imaging. Here, we propose generating PCE maps that quantify the ratio of locally generated power within the solar cell to the extracted power at the contacts. This approach captures both current and voltage losses, providing a more comprehensive assessment of power dissipation mechanisms. We demonstrate the proposed method on a silicon heterojunction solar cell under constant illumination, highlighting its potential for detailed, spatially resolved power loss diagnostics.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Silicon and Solar Cell Technologies solar cell performance optimization Thin-Film Transistor Technologies

Publication details

Journal / source
IEEE Journal of Photovoltaics
Volume
16
Issue
4
Pages
453–457
Publication date
16 March 2026
Language
EN