A review on monolithic perovskite/c-Si tandem solar cells: progress, challenges, and opportunities

Two-junction solar cells with higher theoretical power conversion efficiency (PCE) show great potential for application in photovoltaic (PV) systems, among which the perovskite/c-Si tandem solar cell (PSK/c-Si TSC) has been highlighted due to the existing industrial advantages of its bottom-cell. The PSK/c-Si TSC can be classified into four structures (flat, planarized, and conformal structures, and mechanical stacking), while the strengths and weaknesses of these four structures have been lacking deeper investigation and comparison. This review integrates their best experimental spectral response with the simulated optical properties, and concludes that the conformal structure has the highest theoretical PCE (31.4%) and the best optical properties. However, to address the challenges of PCE enhancement of the conformal structure, the authors review the feasibility of textured interface refinement and innovatively propose practical suggestions for electrical optimization. Finally, advances in practical applications of the PSK/c-Si TSC with respect to large-scale manufacturing, stability issues, and bifacial properties are discussed, which will drive the sustainable development of the PV industry and contribute to global carbon neutralization.