III-V and Concentrator Photovoltaics

In the area of III-V and Concentrator Photovoltaics, Fraunhofer ISE addresses the requirements of the photovoltaic market for both space and terrestrial applications. Our focus continues to be on developing new and customized solar cell architectures with even higher efficiencies. Our success is evidenced in our numerous record efficiencies, among them the current world record for a four-junction solar cell with 46 % efficiency.  We address cost reduction potential at all levels, including optimizations on the system level especially for concentrator photovoltaics. The main aspects considered here include:

• customized concentrator optics,
• production and bonding technologies on the industrial level,
• characterization and modelling at the device and system level, and not least
• reliability and sustainability during manufacturing and recycling

Silicon solar cells are the cell of choice for low concentrator systems. Silicon-based CPV systems equipped with tracking devices have the advantage of reduced silicon use and short energy payback time EPBT.  Fraunhofer ISE serves its clients in this field by developing suitable cells and systems.

The Power-by-Light technology presents solutions for wireless energy transmission. With this technology, light from a laser or LED is transmitted via a glass fiber optic or in the air to a destined target at which a solar cell converts the light into electricity. Our competence in III-V, concentrator and space technologies enable us to ideally customize the cell properties to match the light source. Up to now, conversion efficiencies of over 57 % have been realized. Lightning surveillance systems for wind generators is one of many potential applications for this promising technology.