Outdoor Test Setup for Concentrating Photovoltaic and Thermal (CPVT) Systems

In concentrating photovoltaic and thermal (CPVT) systems, direct sunlight is focused on a combined central receiver in order to generate heat and electricity at the same time. For a thorough scientific analysis and characterization of CPVT systems, an outdoor test setup has been installed at Fraunhofer ISE. The setup allows temperature dependent measurements of IV characteristics as well as MPP tracking for maximum electric energy output in continuous operation. A thermal cycle enables measurement of the thermal efficiency curve for temperatures up to 120 °C. In order to access an overall energetic assessment of CPVT systems, the energetic losses have been modeled. In this paper the test setup and its measurement equipment is presented. In addition results of a characterization of the used paraboloidal solar dish using the fringe reflection method are shown. First electric and thermal measurements have been performed. The results show good agreement with the efficiency model, which is presented as well.