Abstract:
Renewable energy has become an auspicious alternative to fossil fuel resources due to its sustainability and renewability. In this
respect, Photovoltaics (PV) technology is one of the essential technologies. Today, more than 90 % of the global PV market relies
on crystalline silicon (c-Si)-based solar cells. This article reviews the dynamic field of Si-based solar cells from high-cost crystalline to
low-cost cells and investigates how to preserve high possible efficiencies while decreasing the cost. First, we discuss the various types
of c-Si solar cells with different device architectures and report recent developments. Next, thin-film solar cells with their recent
advancements are given. Then, Si nanowires solar cells and their recent results are discussed. Finally, we present the most encouraging
tendencies in achieving low-cost solar cells utilizing cheap materials like heavily doped silicon wafers.