Radiometric ratio characterization for low-to-mid CPV modules operating in variable irradiance conditions

Shelby Vorndran, Juan Russo, Deming Zhang, Michael Gordon, Raymond Kostuk

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this work, a concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) design methodology is proposed which aims to maximize system efficiency for a given irradiance condition. In this technique, the acceptance angle of the system is radiometrically matched to the angular spread of the site's average irradiance conditions using a simple geometric ratio. The optical efficiency of CPV systems from flat-plate to high-concentration is plotted at all irradiance conditions. Concentrator systems are measured outdoors in various irradiance conditions to test the methodology. This modeling technique is valuable at the design stage to determine the ideal level of concentration for a CPV module. It requires only two inputs: the acceptance angle profile of the system and the site's average direct and diffuse irradiance fractions. Acceptance angle can be determined by raytracing or testing a fabricated prototype in the lab with a solar simulator. The average irradiance conditions can be found in the Typical Metrological Year (TMY3) database. Additionally, the information gained from this technique can be used to determine tracking tolerance, quantify power loss during an isolated weather event, and do more sophisticated analysis such as I-V curve simulation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationHigh and Low Concentrator Systems for Solar Electric Applications VII
DOIs
StatePublished - 2012
EventHigh and Low Concentrator Systems for Solar Electric Applications VII - San Diego, CA, United States
Duration: Aug 13 2012Aug 15 2012

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume8468
ISSN (Print)0277-786X

Other

OtherHigh and Low Concentrator Systems for Solar Electric Applications VII
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego, CA
Period8/13/128/15/12

Keywords

  • Acceptance angle
  • CPV
  • Concentrating photovoltaic
  • Diffuse
  • Direct
  • Geometric concentration
  • Irradiance
  • Optical efficiency
  • Radiometry
  • Standard test condition

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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