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Field testing of a spectrum-splitting transmissive concentrator photovoltaic module

Author

Listed:
  • Robertson, John
  • Riggs, Brian
  • Islam, Kazi
  • Ji, Yaping Vera
  • Spitler, Christopher M.
  • Gupta, Naman
  • Krut, Dimitri
  • Ermer, Jim
  • Miller, Fletcher
  • Codd, Daniel
  • Escarra, Matthew

Abstract

Hybrid photovoltaic-thermal systems can decouple IR light from visible light, allowing it to be collected separately by spectrum-optimized mechanisms for increased total efficiency. To demonstrate this, we have designed and prototyped a transmissive spectrum-splitting concentrator photovoltaic module that maximizes solar energy conversion by utilizing the entire solar spectrum. The system first collects visible light using IR-transmissive triple-junction photovoltaic cells to achieve an in-band module efficiency of ηmIB = 34.7% for light of wavelengths λ < 870 nm. Simultaneously, 58.8% of light with λ > 870 nm is transmitted through the cells for collection by a thermal receiver. By combining electrical and thermal power collection, 75% of incident solar power is collected, far surpassing the collection capability of only photovoltaics. The module was tested on a dual-axis tracked parabolic concentrator dish at up to 160 suns for 60 cumulative on-sun hours while maintaining photovoltaic cell temperatures at an average of 50 °C via active cooling. The system performed as expected based on modeled values, and represents a cost-effective path forward for dual-generation of electricity and high-temperature heat with increased total efficiency. The capability is valuable in a wide range of commercial and industrial cogeneration applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Robertson, John & Riggs, Brian & Islam, Kazi & Ji, Yaping Vera & Spitler, Christopher M. & Gupta, Naman & Krut, Dimitri & Ermer, Jim & Miller, Fletcher & Codd, Daniel & Escarra, Matthew, 2019. "Field testing of a spectrum-splitting transmissive concentrator photovoltaic module," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 139(C), pages 806-814.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:139:y:2019:i:c:p:806-814
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2019.02.117
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    2. Li, Yan, 2022. "A concentrated solar spectrum splitting photovoltaic cell-thermoelectric refrigerators combined system: Definition, combined system properties and performance evaluation," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 238(PC).
    3. Qu, Wanjun & Xing, Xueli & Cao, Yali & Liu, Taixiu & Hong, Hui & Jin, Hongguang, 2020. "A concentrating solar power system integrated photovoltaic and mid-temperature solar thermochemical processes," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 262(C).
    4. Otanicar, Todd P. & Wingert, Rhetta & Orosz, Matthew & McPheeters, Clay, 2020. "Concentrating photovoltaic retrofit for existing parabolic trough solar collectors: Design, experiments, and levelized cost of electricity," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 265(C).
    5. Ji, Yaping & Artzt, Luke E. & Adams, Will & Spitler, Christopher & Islam, Kazi & Codd, Daniel & Escarra, Matthew D., 2021. "A transmissive concentrator photovoltaic module with cells directly cooled by silicone oil for solar cogeneration systems," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 288(C).

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