Thermal Analysis of Passively Cooled Hybrid CPV Module Using Si Cell as Heat Distributor

Abstract

In this paper, we introduce a new kind of hybrid concentrator photovoltaic module that is capable of harvesting direct and diffuse irradiance. The concept, denominated EyeCon, uses a Fresnel lens to concentrate direct irradiance onto a primary III–V four-junction solar cell. Directly underneath, a large-area silicon cell is stacked and used as a secondary conversion material for diffuse irradiance while also acting as a heat distributor. This paper focuses on determining the feasibility of this concept based on the evaluation of the thermal behavior of both cells. Such assessment is performed using finite element analysis, indoor infrared thermography, and outdoor measurements under real concentrator operating conditions. The results reveal that under an ambient temperature of 25 °C and a geometric concentration of 226 × 900 W/m2 plus 100 W/m2 of diffuse irradiance, the concentrator III–V and silicon cell temperatures do not increase beyond 80 °C and 60 °C, respectively. Thus, our analysis shows that the silicon can be used simultaneously as a heat distributor and a solar cell.