Silicon concentrator solar cell development
Abstract
This project involved the development and supply of 550 silicon concentrator solar cells for use in prototype point-focus concentrator modules. The cells were to have a designed illumination area of 12.5 by 12.5 mm and to be designed for use with prismatic covers at a geometric concentration ratio of 200X. The target efficiency of 24 percent was comfortably exceeded, with efficiencies as high as 25.2 percent reached in the designed concentration ratio range. A combined lens/cell efficiency of 24.4 percent was measured at Sandia using a cell supplied during this project and a point focus Fresnel lens. Subsequently, a peak module efficiency of 20.3 percent was achieved at Sandia using 12 cells and lenses. This is believed to be the first photovoltaic module to surpass the 20 percent efficiency milestone.
- Publication:
-
Unknown
- Pub Date:
- May 1990
- Bibcode:
- 1990scsc.rept.....G
- Keywords:
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- Concentrators;
- Energy Conversion Efficiency;
- Fresnel Lenses;
- Solar Cells;
- Current Density;
- Feasibility Analysis;
- Semiconductor Diodes;
- Solar Collectors;
- Solar Radiation;
- Energy Production and Conversion