Optimization of structural and electronic properties in CuO/CIGS hybrid solar cells for high-efficiency, sustainable energy conversion

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the performance of hybrid solar cells based on copper oxide (CuO) and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) using the Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator-1D (SCAPS-1D) simulation software. The effects of copper oxide absorber layer thickness, acceptor density in the copper oxide and copper indium gallium selenide layers, and defect density on solar cell performance parameters, including conversion efficiency, open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current density, and fill factor, were analyzed. Results showed that the copper oxide/copper indium gallium selenide hybrid structure achieves enhanced conversion efficiency compared to the single copper oxide structure, with optimal values determined for absorber layer thickness, acceptor density, and defect density. This study provides valuable insights for developing high-efficiency, low-cost hybrid solar cells using abundant and non-toxic materials.