Worldwide Energy Harvesting Potential of Hybrid CPV/PV Technology

Abstract

Hybridization of multi‑junction concentrator photovoltaics with single‑junction flat plate solar cells (CPV/PV) delivers the highest power output per module area of any PV technology. Conversion efficiencies up to 34.2% have been published under the AM1.5g spectrum at standard test conditions for the EyeCon module which combines Fresnel lenses and III-V four‑junction solar cells with bifacial c‑Si. We investigate here its energy yield and compare it to conventional CPV as well as flat plate PV. The advantage of the hybrid CPV/PV module is that it converts direct sunlight with the most advanced multi‑junction cell technology, while accessing diffuse, lens‑scattered and back side irradiance with a Si cell that also serves as the heat distributor for the concentrator cells. This article quantifies the additional energy yield per module area expected from hybrid CPV/PV modules and therefore gives clear guidance towards establishing competitive business cases for the technology.