Numerical modeling and experimental realization of wide bandgap ZnTe-based solar cells for semi-transparent PV application

We report on the modeling of semi-transparent ZnTe-based photovoltaic devices. We propose innovative strategies to markedly improve the performances, so far mostly hindered by a poor band alignment at the p-n interface. Alternative buffer materials are considered, and we investigate on the surface selenization of the ZnTE films as well as the feasibility of a purely ZnTe homojunction. Using a realistic set of state-of-the-art parameters, a semi-transparent solar cell with a potential efficiency exceeding 7.5% is demonstrated possible.