Trough-Lens-Cone optics with microcell arrays: High efficiency at low cost

Tandem cells give HCPV high efficiency, but HCPV has been burdened by high optics, receiver, and balance-of-module costs. Trough/Lens/Cone optics can provide arrays of very-high-concentration microcell-sized foci at low cost, multi-microcell receivers can match the arrays of foci at low receiver cost, and the trough’s initial concentration can reduce sealed-module size and balance-of-module costs. Efficiency and cost analyses indicate that Trough-Lens-Cone modules should provide higher efficiency than Fresnel/box CPV, at a cost that is competitive with silicon PV.