On the thermodynamic efficiency of solar energy converters: Solar cells
- 1 March 1986
- journal article
- Published by AIP Publishing in Journal of Applied Physics
- Vol. 59 (5), 1678-1681
- https://doi.org/10.1063/1.336430
Abstract
Assuming that both source and energy converters are blackbodies and applying thermodynamic balance equations, the net efficiency of a solar cell is derived as a product of two different efficiencies associated, respectively, with the energy absorption and energy conversion into useful work. At room temperature the maximum net efficiency thus obtained is 38%. Efficiencies are calculated at various solar cell temperatures, and results are discussed in view of existing theories.Keywords
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