ABSTRACTA theoretical model is performed to study the viability of the AlGaAs/GaAs superlattice solar cell (SLSC). Using the Transfer Matrix Method, the conditions for resonant tunneling are established for a particular SL geometry with variably spaced quantum wells. The effective density of states and the absorption coefficient are calculated to determinate the J–V characteristic. Radiative, non‐radiative, and interface recombination were evaluated from a modeled SLSC, and their values were compared with a multiple quantum well solar cell of the same aluminum composition. A discussion about the conditions, where SLSC performance overcomes that of a multiple quantum well solar cell, is addressed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.