Optical Modeling and Simulation of Thin-Film Photovoltaic Devices

In wafer-based and thin-film photovoltaic (PV) devices, the management of light is a crucial aspect of optimization since trapping sunlight in active parts of PV devices is essential for efficient energy conversions. Optical modeling and simulation enable efficient analysis and optimization of the optical situation in optoelectronic and PV devices. Optical Modeling and Simulation of Thin-Film Photovoltaic Devices provides readers with a thorough guide to performing optical modeling and simulations of thin-film solar cells and PV modules. It offers insight on examples of existing optical models, demonstrates the applicability of optical modeling, and presents concrete directions and solutions for improving the devices. Along with giving practical hints, the book highlights significant research, development, and production in the field. It covers numerous approaches of one-, two-, and three-dimensional optical modeling, including one-dimensional semi-coherent modeling and two-dimensional modeling based on the finite element method (FEM). Many practical examples illustrate the use of simulations with the developed models, helping readers better understand and develop their own models as well as appreciate innovative concepts in light management in thin-film PV devices.