An optimized design to boost efficiency of CdTe-based solar cell using SCAPS simulator

In this investigation, a novel CdTe-based solar cell structure was developed using SCAPS-1D software to enhance solar cell efficiency through the incorporation of cost-effective and efficient materials. The proposed architecture, FTO/CdS/CdTe/C60/Ni, 60 /Ni, exhibited notable quantum efficiency QE in the visible spectrum, a high fill factor of 89.34 %, and a remarkable Power Conversion Efficiency of 29.36 %. The study aimed to evaluate how qualitative and quantitative material factors influence solar cell characteristics by optimizing the system efficiency and exploring the impact of different layers and parameters such as ETL, HTL, FTO, absorber layer thickness, and metal back contact. Additionally, the analysis considered the effects of wavelength and temperature on the solar cell device performance. Simulation results indicated that the optimal structure should include Ni as specific metal work functions, a C 60 (ETL) layer thickness of 2 mu m, a CdTe (absorber layer) thickness of 1.65 mu m, an FTO layer thickness of 0.5 mu m and a CdS (HTL) thickness of 0.01 mu m. This study provides valuable insights for selecting material parameters and streamlining the fabrication of highly efficient CdTe-based solar cells.