Doubling the power output of bifacial thin-film GaAs solar cells by embedding them in luminescent waveguides

Thin-film, microscale GaAs solar cells transfer printed into luminescent concentrating waveguides show significantly enhanced power output compared to cells evaluated in isolation. Experimental and numerical simulation results demonstrate that optimized configurations involve a free-standing waveguide and a diffuse backside reflector, as a way to maximize capture of both waveguided and scattered photons. Such unusual options in engineering design suggest promising additional avenues for the use of luminescent concentration in advanced photovoltaics. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.