Methods and apparatus are provided for converting electromagnetic radiation, such as solar energy, into electric energy with increased efficiency when compared to conventional solar cells. A photovoltaic (PV) unit may have all electrical contacts positioned on the back side of the PV device to avoid shadowing and increase absorption of the photons impinging on the front side of the PV unit. Several PV units may be combined into PV banks, and an array of PV banks may be connected to form a PV module with thin strips of metal or conductive polymer formed at low temperature. Such innovations may allow for greater efficiency and flexibility in PV devices when compared to conventional solar cells.