Low-Concentration Systems (LCPV)

Concentrating sunlight provides a neat way of reducing photovoltaic power generation costs. Lenses or mirrors are used to focus the photons onto a small semiconductor surface where they are converted into electrical energy. The semiconductor area required, which is comparatively expensive, is thus reduced by a factor of >1 to 1000.

Low-concentration systems cover the concentration range from factor >1 to 30, and medium concentration systems from factor 30 to 100. Silicon solar cells are used in these concentration ranges. We have experience of the entire value chain from the component development to the assessment of the complete system. The most important components in concentrator systems we develop are the solar cells, receivers, and concentrating optics concentrating optics, and we assess systems as a whole. Suitability for industrial applications and long-term stability are always our top priorities. We therefore develop production processes and optimize both material usage and design.

Within the field of low concentration PV systems we develop concentrator modules and systems, and offer:

• Integration and testing of innovative new cells in concentrator modules
• Experimental investigation of new concepts and components (e.g. secondary optics) for CPV
• Design optimization and analysis using finite element methods (FEM) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
• Pilot and small production batches with automated manufacturing technology (e.g. pick & place; bonded, adhesive and soldered joints)
• Reliability and long-term stability testing
• Lab and field measurements