Novel methods of producing photovoltaic cells are provided herein, as well as photovoltaic cells produced thereby, and uses thereof. In some embodiments, a method as described herein comprises doping a substrate so as to form a p+layer on one side and an n+layer on an another side, removing at least a portion of the n+layer, and then forming a second n+layer, such that a concentration of the n-dopant in the second n+layer is variable throughout a surface of the substrate.