Theoretical short-circuit current density for different geometries and organizations of silicon nanowires in solar cells

► Short circuit current (Jsc) was modeled in periodic vertical silicon nanowire arrays. ► Jsc values are similar for square and hexagonal arrays with equal nanowire densities. ► Optimal geometries were determined from results on wide range of parameters. ► Maximum values of Jsc were shown as functions of the nanowire length. ► Introduction of dual-diameter arrays further improved Jsc by 10%.