Realizing the World’s First Upgradeable, 40-year Lifetime High Concentration Photovoltaic (HCPV) System – An Accelerated Pathway to Grid Parity

Abstract

ABSTRACTAs incentive programs for solar energy are gradually being phased out around the world, solar must quickly become a viable and competitive option to the mainstream, fossil-based power generation technologies. As such, it must begin to assume more of the characteristics of the traditional technologies in order to be compatible with utility generation business models. With this goal in mind, Solergy has realized a series of innovations that include optics, concentrator module design, and tracking to create a high performing, long-lasting High Concentration Photovoltaic (HCPV) system. Because it is upgradeable, Solergy is the only HCPV system that can actually increase its power output over its lifetime and then subsequently extend its life out to 40 years. This talk will discuss the types of technological advances required to achieve this and share results from the lab and the field. In particular, the talk will cover the world’s only all-glass concentrating lens, high performance tracking, and the unique upgrade mechanism.