Systematic design evaluation on the example of a concentrator photovoltaic module with mirror optics and passive heat dissipation

Abstract

In the design of concentrator photovoltaic modules, numerous components need to be optimised to achieve the highest performance of the complete system while simultaneously maintaining low costs for the manufacturing processes. In this paper, we present a systematic analysis of different designs of concentrator photovoltaic modules using mirror optics to concentrate the solar radiation by a factor of 1000 with passive heat dissipation. Module designs based on 4 different arrangements for the optics are investigated: on‐axis, asymmetrical, and Cassegrain with and without tertiary optics. Each design is optimised for high thermal, optical, and electrical performance via finite element method, ray tracing, and network simulations. Concepts for manufacturing are also proposed. The 4 specific designs are evaluated and compared in a systematic benefit analysis. In this analysis, 9 criteria are defined to describe the module performance and manufacturability. To quantify the benefit of each module design, utility values—a score to provide a value to the benefit—and weighting factors are defined. With this systematic analysis, the strengths and potential for optimisation are identified, and the different designs are compared. In addition, the potential for improvement is discussed surveying the different criteria.

Challenges in the design of concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) modules to achieve highest efficiencies

“…Thus, small-sized mirrors (e.g., <200 mm 2 ) and correspondingly small-sized solar cells are recommended. 50 An alternative proposed uses an optical fluid to enhance both the optical properties and the heat dissipation. 37 Large If they are solar powered, even wiring between the heliostats can be omitted.…”

“…Finally, due to low total current per cell, the electrical performance is less sensitive to nonuniformity of the flux distribution. 50 Challenges are electrical losses in the solar cell that need to be regarded because of high perimeter to area ratio 220 and possibly a higher percentage of shaded areas where dark currents induce losses. Additionally, many components need to be handled with high precision with placement in the micrometer range.…”

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