A thin film photovoltaic cell includes a light absorption layer of Group I-III-VI2 semiconductor materials and a high surface energy thin film layer that improves adhesion between the light absorption layer and an underlying electrode layer. The high surface energy thin film either replaces or is deposited on top of the back electrode to decrease the formation of voids at the back interface during absorber growth/deposition and thereby enabling a wider process window and improved cell efficiencies. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.