Abstract: A method for optimizing an existing generator system based on photovoltaic cells and provided with an existing photovoltaic panel or a group of existing photovoltaic panels, each panel having a first plurality of cells of a first type interconnected in series or in series/in parallel. The method includes: determining an operating voltage of the panel(s); producing additional panel module(s) having a second plurality of thin-film cells of a second type and having a different band gap width than the cells of the panel(s), the additional module(s) being configured to supply an operating voltage equal, within ±10%, to the voltage of the panel(s); positioning the additional module to overlap on or under the panel or one of the panel(s), the module being connected in parallel to the panel(s), or positioning several additional modules to overlap on or under several panels, the several modules being connected in parallel to panels.

Abstract: A photovoltaic device comprising: a plurality of photovoltaic cells, separated from each other; a support receiving the cells; and a light guide in contact with the cells and comprising a primary guide with a surface that is proximal to the cells, where the proximal surface is oriented towards the cells and the support. The photovoltaic device comprises, between the cells, areas located between the support and the primary guide which comprise a material with an index of refraction less than that of the proximal surface, where the material is in contact with the proximal surface.

Abstract: A thin-film photovoltaic device is proposed having an optimized layout for one of the electrical contacts. The device comprises a substrate. A first thin film forming a first electrical contact of the photovoltaic device is arranged on the substrate. An absorber is arranged on the first electrical contact. A second thin film forming a second electrical contact of the photovoltaic device is arranged on the substrate. A transparent conductive layer is arranged on the absorber. In addition, the second electrical contact is spaced apart from the first electrical contact, and the transparent conductive layer is in contact with the absorber and the second electrical contact.

Abstract: A photovoltaic device comprising: a plurality of photovoltaic cells, separated from each other; a support receiving the cells; and a light guide in contact with the cells and comprising a primary guide with a surface that is proximal to the cells, where the proximal surface is oriented towards the cells and the support. The photovoltaic device comprises, between the cells, areas located between the support and the primary guide which comprise a material with an index of refraction less than that of the proximal surface, where the material is in contact with the proximal surface.