A photovoltaic cell including a first semiconductor layer that includes a III-V compound semiconductor, the first semiconductor layer positioned over a transparent conductive layer, and a second semiconductor layer that includes a II-VI compound semiconductor, the second semiconductor layer positioned between the first semiconductor layer and a back metal contact. The photovoltaic cell further includes an interfacial layer between the first and second semiconductor layers that enhances a rectifying junction formed between the III-V and II-VI compound semiconductor materials.