Photovoltaic Technology: Power Conversion Efficiency of Solar Cells: A Review

In recent years, there are several types of solar cells that have been reported due to their continually improving power efficiency, straightforward solution production methods, portability, lightweight nature for wearability and cost-effective material components. In this work, we have concentrated on the latest advancements in solar cells related to their properties and uses. Furthermore, various layers, such as electron transport layers and hole transport layers were described. Subsequently, the constraints and cell efficiency were reported in specific solar cells. Finally, the photovoltaic parameters of the devices, band gaps and carrier mobility were reported as well. Dye sensitized solar cells made with natural dyes offer unique benefits in energy usage. The primary factors include its efficiency, eco-friendly dyes, remarkable device performance, sustainable energy generation, and adaptable solar product incorporation. Although dye sensitized solar cells that use natural dyes as sensitizers, offer numerous advantages, they experience lower efficiency in comparison to traditional silicon based solar cells. The choice of plant components significantly influences the devices’ overall efficiency. Consequently, a thorough investigation has been conducted to examine the plant’s components that have demonstrated improved outcomes regarding device efficiency. The efficiency of organic solar cells has significantly improved in the past decade, thanks to advancements in a range of high-performance organic electron-donor and electron-acceptor materials, such as polymers, small molecules and fullerenes, used in the photo-active layer. Effective molecular design approaches for various types of organic solar cells are studied and promising research pathways are emphasized. It was noted that the efficiency of perovskite solar cells has exceeded 25% owing to high-quality films achieved through low-temperature synthesis methods, alongside advancements in suitable interface and electrode materials. In the thin film based solar cells, the research findings confirmed that power conversion efficiency, fill factor, open circuit voltage and short circuit current density is strongly dependent on experimental conditions.