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) can deliver 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 that hybrid bifacial CPV/PV modules are expected to generate a 25 - 35% higher energy yield with respect to their closest competitor in regions with a diffuse irradiance fraction around 50%. Additionally, the relative cost of electricity generated by hybrid CPV/PV technology was calculated worldwide under certain economic assumptions. Therefore, this article gives clear guidance towards establishing competitive business cases for the technology.