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Next Generation Photovoltaic Technologies For High-Performance Remote Power Generation (Final Report)

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/1561699· OSTI ID:1561699

A unique, micro-scale architecture is proposed to create a novel hybrid concentrated photovoltaic system. Micro-scale (sub-millimeter wide), multi-junction cells are attached to a large-area silicon cell backplane (several inches wide) that can optimally collect both direct and diffuse light. By using multi- junction III-V cells, we can get the highest possible efficiency of the direct light input. In addition, by collecting the diffuse light in the large-area silicon cell, we can produce power on cloudy days when the concentrating cells would have minimal output. Through the use of micro-scale cells and lenses, the overall assembly will provide higher efficiency than conventional concentrators and flat plates, while keeping the form factor of a flat plate module. This report describes the hybrid concept, the design of a prototype, including the PV cells and optics, and the experimental results.

Research Organization:
Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States); Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore, CA
Sponsoring Organization:
US Department of the Navy, Office of Naval Research (ONR); USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA); USDOE Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) Program
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-94AL85000
OSTI ID:
1561699
Report Number(s):
SAND--2016-5760; 643423
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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