A photovoltaic device is disclosed that includes a transparent front electrode formed by the self-assembly of conductive nanoparticles from an emulsion coated onto a substrate and dried. The nanoparticles self-assemble into a network-like pattern of conductive traces that define randomly-shaped transparent cells. The cells may be filled with various transparent filler materials and additional layers may be present in the device in addition to conventional components. Processes for forming the transparent electrode are also disclosed.