Open AccessPerformance of a prototype stationary catadioptric concentrating photovoltaic module
Author(s) -
John Lloyd,
Michael Pavilonis,
Christopher Gladden,
Chadwick Casper,
Kevin A. Schneider,
William E. McMahon,
P. Kozodoy
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.26.00a413
Subject(s) - catadioptric system , photovoltaic system , optics , irradiance , solar tracker , computer science , energy conversion efficiency , physics , optoelectronics , electrical engineering , engineering , lens (geology)
A stationary catadioptric concentrating photovoltaic module with aperture area over 100 cm 2 , geometric concentration of 180×, and collection within 60° of polar incidence was designed, prototyped, and characterized. The module performance followed modeling closely with a peak power conversion efficiency of 26% for direct irradiance. Tracking of the sun is accomplished via translational micro-tracking completely internal to the module, avoiding the cost and complexity of mechanical two-axis trackers that point towards the sun. This demonstrates the potential for concentrating photovoltaic modules with significantly higher efficiency than industry standard silicon photovoltaic modules that could be installed in stationary configurations on rooftops.