Characterization of optical collectors for concentration photovoltaic applications

Abstract

Abstract The design and characterization of the collector of a photovoltaic concentrator system is commonly carried out for a given receiver, the optical parameters of the collector being linked to it. This paper, which has substantial tutorial content, deals with the characterization of collectors for concentrator photovoltaic systems, independently of any receiver, and providing the necessary parameters for the design of a system. This strategy allows the parameters related to the collector and the receiver, which are usually manufactured by different industries, to be totally separated. It also allows the optical collectors coming from non‐photovoltaic industries to be evaluated. The information that the mirror and lens manufacturers should provide for a photovoltaic concentrator application can be summarized under three characteristics: overall optical efficiency; light distribution; and acceptance angle. Theory, equipment, and procedures to carry out the optical characterization of the collectors are explained. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.