CPVMatch - Concentrating photovoltaic modules using advanced technologies and cells for highest efficiencies

This paper presents the project Concentrating Photovoltaic modules using advanced technologies and cells for highest efficiencies (CPVMatch), which is funded from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme. V multi-junction solar cells and CPV modules. Concerning cells, novel wafer bonded four-junction solar cells made of GaInP/GaAs//GaInAs/Ge are optimized with the target of reaching 48% efficiency under concentration at the end of the project. Moreover, multi-junction solar cell technologies with advanced materials - like ternary IV element mixtures (i.e. SiGeSn) and nanostructured anti-reflective coatings - are investigated. Concerning CPV modules the project focuses on both Fresnel-based and mirror-based technologies with a target efficiency of 40% under high concentrations beyond 800x. Achromatic Fresnel lenses for improved light management without secondary optics are investigated. In addition, smart, mirror-based HCPV modules are developed, which include a new mirror-based design, the integration of high efficiency, low cost DC/DC converters and an intelligent tracking sensor (PSD sensor) at module level. A profound life-cycle and environmental assessment and the development of adapted characterization methods of new multi-junction cells and HCPV modules complete the work plan of CPVMatch

Final Results of CPVMatch - Concentrating Photovoltaic Modules Using Advanced Technologies and Cells for Highest Efficiencies

The EU-funded project Concentrating Photovoltaic modules using advanced technologies and cells for highest efficiencies (CPVMatch) and its main results will be presented. The collaborative project started in May 2015 with a duration of three and a half years and an EC contribution of 4.95 M€. The consortium consists of four research institutions (Fraunhofer ISE, RSE, CEA, Tecnalia), one University (UPM), two industry partners (AZUR Space Solar Power, AIXTRON) and two SMEs (ASSE, Cycleco) and is coordinated by Fraunhofer ISE. The consortium addresses in their research all topics required for manufacturing of high-efficiency CPV modules. This includes material issues, manufacturing and equipment aspect and production challenges. University and research institutes are working in close co-operation with industry partners in order to ensure fast industrial exploitation of all results within the whole value chain

Final Results of CPVMatch - Concentrating Photovoltaic Modules Using Advanced Technologies and Cells for Highest Efficiencies

The EU-funded project Concentrating Photovoltaic modules using advanced technologies and cells for highest efficiencies (CPVMatch) and its main results will be presented. The collaborative project started in May 2015 with a duration of three and a half years and an EC contribution of 4.95 M€. The consortium consists of four research institutions (Fraunhofer ISE, RSE, CEA, Tecnalia), one University (UPM), two industry partners (AZUR Space Solar Power, AIXTRON) and two SMEs (ASSE, Cycleco) and is coordinated by Fraunhofer ISE. The consortium addresses in their research all topics required for manufacturing of high-efficiency CPV modules. This includes material issues, manufacturing and equipment aspect and production challenges. University and research institutes are working in close co-operation with industry partners in order to ensure fast industrial exploitation of all results within the whole value chain