A low concentrating cell and receiver concept based on low cost silicon solar cells

A multi-use and low cost silicon concentrator solar cell and receiver concept is presented. It is based on a industrially feasible Metall Wrap Through concentrator solar cell available in various dimensions up to 156×156m. Solar cell performance evolution and current results are reported, with a top efficiency of 20.2% at 1W/cm² irradiance. The interconnection and receiver integration of the cells is demonstrated with several prototypes. A maximum cell-to-receiver efficiency of 99.3 % is shown, and a top receiver efficiency of 19.2 % at 1W/cm² irradiance is measured. Preliminary reliability testing sequences (humidity freeze, thermal cycling) and outdoor exposure results are passed without significant damages or IV power degradation (<1%).