Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
1550656 Solar Energy 2013 9 Pages PDF
Abstract

High-voltage silicon Vertical Multi-Junction (VMJ) cells can accept high concentration with peak efficiency potentially reaching close to 30%. Dense-array modules with high-voltage cells should allow a parallel connection with voltage matching rather than series connection with current matching, leading to lower mismatch losses under non-uniform illumination. The performance of a dense array with VMJ cells connected in parallel under non-uniform illumination is investigated, in comparison to a module with conventional cells connected in series. The incident flux distribution corresponds to that of a parabolic dish with and without a homogenizer. The number of junctions in each VMJ cell is a free parameter for optimization. The results show a clear advantage of the VMJ module over the conventional module under non-uniform illumination, allowing reduction or even elimination of homogenizing secondary optics, and easing the tracking accuracy requirements.

► We analyze the performance of CPV modules based on vertical multi-junction cells. ► The modules have excellent performance under non-uniform illumination. ► Homogenizing optics can be made shorter or be omitted reducing optical losses. ► High performance under non-uniform illumination can ease tracking requirements.

Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Energy Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
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