Technology Assessment and modelling of Three Terminal Tandem Solar Cells for in-space Utilization

Use This study evaluates the potential of three-terminal tandem (3TT) solar cells to enhance photovoltaic efficiency in space environments, with a primary focus on III-V multi-junction technology. Through numerical simulations and circuit modeling, the 3TT architecture demonstrated a 0.66% absolute increase in efficiency for state-of-the-art III-V triple junction space solar cells compared to traditional configurations. This improvement, while modest, represents a significant advancement for high-performance, cost-sensitive applications in space power generation, where specific power and $/W are critical metrics. Supplemental analyses of perovskite/silicon 3TT devices validated the modeling approach and provided insights into broader applicability. These findings pave the way for integrating III-V 3TT cells into scalable manufacturing processes, optimizing space photovoltaics for durability and efficiency.