Low-Energy Electron Multiplication on Nanostructured Solar Cells: a Novel Route to Overcome Si-PV Efficiency Limits
No Thumbnail Available
Author
Hosatte, Mikaël
Rouffie, Brice
Kuznicki, Zbigniew T.
Milesi, Frédéric
Paviet-Salomon, Bertrand
Morisset, Audrey
Wyss, Philippe
Koduvelikulathu, Lejo Joseph
Rachdi, Lazhar
DOI
Abstract
Silicon photovoltaics, while dominating global photovoltaic production, are approaching the Shockley–Queisser efficiency limit. The LEEMONS project, funded by Horizon Europe (Grant 101172870), develops a novel nanostructured solar cell concept based on Low-Energy Electron Multiplication (LEEM). This process enables a single high-energy photon to generate multiple low-energy electrons, thereby reducing thermalisation losses and increasing photocurrent. The consortium integrates advanced ion implantation, annealing and metallisation techniques to demonstrate proof-of-concept prototypes using industrially relevant solar technologies such as heterojunction cells. Early results confirm the fabrication of ion-implanted nanostructured layers, validation of implantation masks and low-temperature metallisation alternatives. LEEMONS offers a scalable, industry-compatible pathway to higher Si-PV efficiencies, with strong alignment to EU goals on renewable energy, climate neutrality and technological sovereignty.
Publication Reference
EUPVSEC 2025, Bilbao, Spain
Year
2025