Design of solar cell materials via soft X-ray spectroscopy

► The use of soft X-ray spectroscopy for developing new materials for solar cells is illustrated. ► A generic layout of a solar cell is given, which facilitates the discussion of the energy levels involved in a solar cell and their optimization. ► Systematic measurements of organometallic dyes are presented in combination with density functional theory. ► The data reveal trends that are useful for tailoring materials for solar cells. ► A solar cell design based on thin film p-type diamond as donor is used as example.