Advanced GaInP/Ga(In)As/Ge triple junction space solar cells

A programme for the development of advanced triple-junction space solar cells in Europe was initiated and supported by ESA and DLR. RWE Space Solar Power (D) has been leading a research and development consortium including UMICORE (B), CESI (I) with ENE (B), University of Paris (F), FhG-ISE (D) and Astrium (D). This paper presents results of the phase 2 work of this programme, in which triple junction solar cells with AMO-efficiencies of 27% have been realized. Additionally, the pre-development of the next generation of space solar cells with efficiencies above 30% is described.