Maximizing carrier extraction in hybrid back-contact silicon solar cells | Nature

Subjects Solar cells Abstract Hybrid back-contact (BC) silicon solar cells 1-3 combine the strengths of TOPCon-derived 4-7 n -type contacts, SHJ-derived 8-12 p -type contacts, and interdigitated BC (IBC) 13,14 device structures. Though high performance in the form of 27.8% efficiency has been demonstrated, 1 the understanding of the fundamental advantages of the hybrid BC architecture over conventional BC cells (e.g. eliminating front-surface metallization shading 3 ) remains unexplored. Here we take advantage of the design flexibility of the hybrid BC architecture to use a multifunctional front layer for both light trapping and passivation. Meanwhile, we improved carrier collection and process compatibility of the rear carrier-selective contacts. We also show the optimal c-Si absorber thickness is increased to 160-μm, leading to a certified efficiency of 27.62% for industrially compatible c-Si solar cells. Access through your institution Buy or subscribe This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution Access options Access through your institution Access Nature and 54 other Nature Portfolio journals Get Nature+, our best-value online-access subscription $32.99 / 30 days cancel any time Learn more Subscribe to this journal Receive 51 print issues and online access $199.00 per year only $3.90 per issue Learn more Rent or buy this article Prices vary by article type from $1.95 to $39.95 Learn more Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout Similar content being viewed by others Silicon solar cells with hybrid back contacts Article 12 November 2025