A novel high-concentration PV technology for cost competitive utility bulk power generation

Abstract

This paper describes an innovative design for a nominal 20 kW, integrated, high-concentration (260X) photovoltaic (IHCPV) system which has been developed for costeffective, utility-scale bulk power generation. This technology recently set a new world record for efficiency : 20.3% under STC (18.5%, >20 kW at PVUSA operating conditions). High-concentration PV systems offer several advantages for low cost power generation: (1) cost reduction through the optimum utilization of silicon, (2) higher conversion cell (hence system) efficiency at concentration vs. one-sun, and (3) inherently higher capacity factor in high direct normal insolation areas because of its built-in tracking. Previously little progress has been made in deploying HCPV for large-scale electricity generation because of: (1) the lack of a stable, high performance, high-concentration solar cell, and (2) the high cost associated with the PV modules, structure, tracking system, and ancillary equipment. With the arrival of a stable high performance cell developed by AMONIX, high-concentration PV systems can now be realized. A novel integrated system concept greatly reduces the costs associated with system hardware and labor by; (1) integrating the load bearing structure and the Fresnel lenslreceiver plate elements eliminating the need for separate modules, and (2) use of a manufacturing-worthy receiver plate which makes use of "circuit-board" construction techniques. A full-scale 20 kilowatt IHCPV system has been deployed, and test results which validate the system design are reported. The IHCPV system development is complete and only volume production, not technical breakthroughs, is needed to meet the cost goals of <$2.00/watt at multi-megawatt levels.

Photovoltaic Concentrators

“…Since then, Amonix and SunPower have continued development using other sources of funds. Both companies have since demonstrated modules with efficiency around 20%, showing the potential of point-contact silicon cells [34,35]. These companies will be discussed in more detail in Section 11.5.…”

“…Generally, module improvements have followed the increase in cell efficiencies, with a lag in time to incorporate the cell into suitable packages. Noteworthy recent results are the 20% record held by point-contact silicon-based modules since 1995 [34,35], and the recent 28% multijunction module based on an Entech domed Fresnel lens [45].…”

“…Amonix has developed a 20-kW point-focus Fresnel lens array intended for the utility market. It has an innovative integral-backplane module design that greatly reduces the number of parts by incorporating the wiring and cell package as a part of the module back [34]. Systems have been installed at PVUSA and the Arizona Public Service's STAR facility.…”

The promise of concentrators

“…It has an innovative integral-backplane module design and greatly reduces the number of parts by incorporating the wiring and cell package as a part of the module back. 11 Systems have been installed at PVUSA and the Arizona Public Service's STAR facility. They recently announced that ®ve more systems are under order.…”

Analysis and Prediction of Energy Production in Concentrating Photovoltaic (CPV) Installations

“…However, there are articles that can provide information on the real performance. [16,17] report correlation between output power and DNI. This output power was measured at the module output, and does not take into account losses in the wiring and the inverter.…”