Soltec and Fraunhofer ISE Collaborate to Develop Innovative Prototype of Two-Axis Solar Tracker
This project, led by Fraunhofer ISE, aims to use the most advanced solar tracker technology of Soltec and adapt it specifically to the requirements of a new generation of micro-CPV modules.
August 03, 2024. By Abha Rustagi
This project, led by Fraunhofer ISE, aims to use the most advanced solar tracker technology of Soltec and adapt it specifically to the requirements of a new generation of micro-concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) modules that operate at nearly one thousand suns concentration. The micro-CPV modules place stringent requirements on tracking accuracy in two directions to point the CPV modules always precisely towards the sun. This means that maximum electricity generation is reached throughout the day from sunrise to sunset.
The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE has entrusted Soltec to design and build a new solar tracker that meets stringent requirements for precision and structural robustness. This collaboration combines Soltec’s highly qualified expertise in the mechanical design of solar trackers with Fraunhofer’s experience in developing the highest-performance CPV modules. The latest micro-CPV technology of the institute reaches 36.5 percent conversion efficiency and promises to increase electricity generation by 30 percent compared to the most efficient solutions today.
The prototype will be used to test the precision of tracking accuracy throughout the day. In a later stage, the system can be equipped with 15.7 kWp of micro-CPV panels. “We prepare the path for concentrating photovoltaics to re-enter the market with a competitive product which convinces investors by its high energy yield, robustness, and sustainability.” said Dr. Frank Dimroth, head of III-V and concentrating photovoltaics at Fraunhofer ISE.
“Resource efficiency becomes an increasingly important topic in photovoltaics and our technology immediately reduces module areas by 30 percent and semiconductors by 1300 times. We believe that this technology should find its market share for PV power plants in sun-rich countries of the world,” added Dr. Dimroth.
The new concentrating photovoltaic system not only breaks paradigms in traditional two-axis solar tracker design but also aligns with emerging sector trends such as solar hydrogen generation and AgriPV. The latter combines solar energy generation with agriculture.
The tracker’s ability to adapt to different orientations and topographic conditions makes it an ideal solution for these applications. Furthermore, CPV modules transmit diffuse sun radiation and allow plants to receive sufficient sunlight for their growth while protecting them from excessive high-intensity radiation.
please contact: contact@energetica-india.net.
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