Photovoltaic system performance enhancement with non-tracking planar concentrators: Experimental results and BDRF based modelling

Authors

Rob W. Andrews, Queen's University, Kingston
Andrew Pollard, Queen's University, Kingston
Joshua M. Pearce, Michigan Technological University

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-2013

Abstract

Non-tracking planar concentrators are a low-cost method of increasing the performance of traditional solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. In this study such an outdoor system has been shown to improve energy yield by 45% for a traditional flat glass module and by 35% for a prismatic glass crystalline silicon module. In addition, this paper presents new methodologies for properly modelling this type of system design and experimental results using a bi-directional reflectance function (BDRF) of non-ideal surfaces rather than traditional geometric optics. This methodology allows for the evaluation and eventual optimization of specular and non-specular reflectors in planar concentration systems. © 2013 IEEE.

Publication Title

Conference Record of the IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference

Recommended Citation

Andrews, R., Pollard, A., & Pearce, J. (2013). Photovoltaic system performance enhancement with non-tracking planar concentrators: Experimental results and BDRF based modelling. Conference Record of the IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference, 229-234. http://doi.org/10.1109/PVSC.2013.6744136
Retrieved from: https://digitalcommons.mtu.edu/michigantech-p/10886