Simplified Contactless Method for Current-Voltage Characterisation of Modern Solar Cells

Accurate current-voltage characterisation is essential for assessing solar cell performance; however, conventional methods that rely on physical electrical contacts face increasing limitations with the advent of advanced cell architectures. Configurations such as high-density busbars, busbar-less designs, and back-contact structures complicate probe alignment, increase the risk of mechanical damage, and limit measurement throughput. In this study, we present a simple and fully contactless technique for current-voltage characterisation, based on luminescence-based measurements. This method is validated using industrial silicon heterojunction and back-contact solar cells, demonstrating excellent correlation with conventional contacted measurements, with deviations remaining within 3%. The proposed approach provides a robust, non-invasive alternative suitable for both laboratory-scale research and industrial production environments, offering a promising pathway towards more reliable and efficient quality control in solar cell manufacturing.