Improvement of Tracking-Integrated Photovoltaic Systems Using Secondary Optical Elements

Concentrator photovoltaic systems with tracking-integrated offer an alternative to traditional concentrator photovoltaic systems by eliminating the need for conventional solar trackers, reducing costs, and opening up new market opportunities. This study explores different configurations of modules with tracking-integrated systems. The first setup includes a static bi-convex aspheric lens and a mobile triple-junction solar cell. The second setup adds a secondary optical element to these components. This study also compares two materials, PMMA and BK7. These systems have been simulated theoretically and measured experimentally in the laboratory. The experimental results obtained are similar to the theoretical ones, thus validating the design presented. In addition, a study of the annual energy generated by both configurations in different locations shows an annual energy gain of 14% when including secondary optics in module design. These results provide an idea of the advantage of including secondary optics in the system design under real operating conditions for different sites.