Abstract: This application describes photovoltaic devices that include, in some embodiments, plasmonic nanoparticles and colloidal quantum dots and that have enhanced photovoltaic conversion efficiencies. This application also describes methods of making and using photovoltaic devices. Certain photovoltaic devices include plasmonic nanoparticles integrated with light absorbing semiconductor nanoparticles such as, but not limited to, colloidal quantum dots. Certain photovoltaic devices include solution-processed materials (e.g., colloidal plasmonic and light absorbing semiconductor nanoparticles) that are specifically tuned to enhance overall photovoltaic performance through increased absorbance of the light absorbing material.