Development of a mirror-based LCPV module and test results

The design and the technical features of a low concentration photovoltaic module based on silicon solar cells are here presented, reporting manufacturing topics and results of experimental tests. The product here described has been developed, taking into account costs, efficiency, reliability, and investments required for its industrial production and for its commercial exploitationThe design of a specific low concentration photovoltaic module is described here, with a report of the results of the first experimental tests of its industrial version. The product is a 20× reflective concentrating photovoltaic module based on silicon solar cells. The optics were designed to mount these modules on 2-axis trackers with angular pointing accuracy of up to about ±4° without significant power loss. The high angular acceptance of the non-imaging optics permits the collection of a high fraction of the circumsolar light impinging on the module's frontal aperture, providing high direct normal irradiance efficiency in real operative conditions. Many technical features of the product are described here, in which features are the result of 5 years of product development in order to improve performance, reliability and cost issues.