Performance analysis of CuSbSe2 thin-film solar cells with Cd-free window layers

•The photovoltaic performance of CASe thin solar cells with Cd-free layers are investigated.•ITO/ZnMgO/CASe/Cu + Au Thin Film Solar Cell are fabricated (SC-1).•ITO/ZnSnO/CASe/Cu + Au Thin Film Solar Cell are fabricated (SC-2).•A power conversion efficiency (η) of 2.12% is obtained for SC-1.•A power conversion efficiency (η) of 2.43% is obtained for SC-2. This study investigates novel thin-film solar cells featuring CuSbSe2 (CASe) with ZnSnO and ZnMgO windows in the layer superstrate structure. For glass/ITO/ZnMgO/CASe/Cu + Au, the J-V measurements reveal a short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 19.4 mA/cm2, an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.28 Volts, a fill factor (FF) of 39.14 %, and a power conversion efficiency (η) of 2.13 %. Similarly, glass/ITO/ZnSnO/CASe/Cu + Au exhibits Jsc around 19.6 mA/cm2, Voc around 0.31 Volts, FF around 40 %, and η of 2.43 %. This paper is a pioneering contribution, introducing novel thin-film solar cells with a distinctive superstrate structure utilizing CASe in conjunction with ZnSnO and ZnMgO windows. The comprehensive study presents the first-ever characterization and performance evaluation of these innovative configurations, shedding light on their unique potential in advancing sustainable solar energy technology.