Quantum corrections to the efficiency of solar cells with conductive nanostructured layers

It was shown in many experiments that the incorporation of metallic nanostructures into photovoltaic devices results in the enhancement of solar cell efficiency. Most simulations of such devices are based on classical electrodynamics and neglect quantum effects arising from nanosized metallic structures. Here, we look at nonlocal electron-electron interactions, Lorentz friction and strong coupling of plasmon modes with a Si substrate.