Computer simulation of amorphous MIS solar cells

A computer model to simulate amorphous MIS solar cells is developed. The model is based on the self-consistent solution of the electron and hole continuity equations, together with the Poisson equation under proper boundary conditions. The program developed is used to investigate the cell performance characteristics in terms of its physical and structural parameters. The current-voltage characteristics of the solar cell are obtained under AM1 solar illumination. The dependences of the short-circuit current, open-circuit voltage, fill factor and cell conversion efficiency on localized gap state density, carrier lifetime, cell thickness and surface recombination velocity are obtained and discussed. The results presented show how cell parameters can be varied to improve the cell performance characteristics.