A twenty percent efficient photovoltaic concentrator module

Abstract

A solar-to-electric efficiency greater than 200% has been achieved using a silicon-based photovoltaic concentrator module. The module uses 12 point-focus cells and has a total lens aperture area of 1875 cm/sup 2/. Results of outdoor testing of the full module are given. The cells and cell mounts of the module were designed for the commercial-prototype Sandia Baseline Module 3, and it is expected that concentrator modules with efficiencies of 20% will be available commercially within a few years.<>