Downshifting/quantum cutting behaviour of the Er3+-Yb3+ doped tungsten tellurite glasses, synthesized by a conventional melt-quenching route is discussed. The non-crystalline nature and thermal stability of the prepared glasses were confirmed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and thermo-gravimetric analysis/differential thermal analysis whereas the optical spectroscopy was obtained via optical absorption and photoluminescence excitation/emission spectra. The results displayed a markable reduction in visible emissions observed through the 2H11/2 → 4I15/2, 4S3/2 → 4I15/2, 4F9/2 → 4I15/2 and 4I9/2 → 4I15/2 transitions of the Er3+ ion and a huge enhancement of about 14.2 times in the near-infrared (∼977 nm upon 490 nm and 325 nm excitations) emission range on incorporation of the Yb3+ ions. A cross relaxation from 4F7/2 → 4I11/2 (Er3+) to 2F7/2 → 2F5/2 (Yb3+) and energy transfer from 4I11/2 (Er3+) to 2F5/2 (Yb3+) states were found to be responsible to cut the blue photon (∼490 nm) into two near infrared (∼977 nm) photons, which put forward the convenience of the present glass as a possible luminescent layer to enhance the efficiency of silicon solar cells.