Numerical simulation of one-dimensional solar cell model

Seah, Boon Yun (2020) Numerical simulation of one-dimensional solar cell model. Project Report. Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia. (Submitted)

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Abstract

Solar energy is becoming one of the primary sources energy in the world which converts energy from the Sun into electrical energy and thermal. The renewable energy source can gradually replace fossil fuels for domestic, commercial, or industrial use due to its abundance, versatility, and environmental-friendly. According to statistic, there is about 84% of the total energy generated from fossil fuels. However, fossil fuels are non-renewable and unsustainable as well as creating environmental pollution issues due to the emission of greenhouse gases. Therefore, solar energy would be the promising fuel for the humanity’s future. The purpose of this project is to provide a better understanding of the operation of solar cell by using one-dimensional (1D) solar cell model. Besides, the model will be solved by numerical analysis through the appropriate tool in MATLAB. Then, the performance of the numerical simulation of solar cell will be analysed. Before starting the simulation process, a deep understanding on literature background of the fundamental of semiconductor will be an essential element to implement the project successfully. For instances, Generation-Recombination Processes, Poisson Equation, Drift-Diffusion Transport Equation and continuity equation of holes and electrons. After that, nondimensionalisation will be done to transform dimensional equations into dimensionless equation. However, the dimensionless equations can be converted back with an appropriate scaling. Then, by applying Method of Lines (MOL), the spatial variable can be discretized by using finite difference method while time variable remains as derivative. Therefore, the partial derivative equations (PDEs) are converted to ordinary differential equations (ODEs) which can then be solved by using ODE solver in MATLAB. As a result, charge density and electrostatic potential against thickness graphs as well as J-V characteristic curve can be obtained and analysed in MATLAB. Efficiency of the silicon solar cell also can be calculated based on J-V characteristic curve. Those simulated results will be compared with the theoretical results from previous research.

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