News Article
On-Sun Systems demonstrates 21% efficient CPV module
On-Sun Systems has announced that it has demonstrated a rooftop-compatible concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) module with 21% efficiency. The efficiency is based on performance to global radiation over the whole panel area, so is directly comparable to a silicon panel under Standard Test Conditions. The best crystalline silicon modules in the market currently offer 21% efficiency and On-Sun intends to offer a 25% efficient module for sale in 2013, which will have a clear performance advantage.
Several companies are developing commercial CPV systems but these typically require large amounts of space and the use of bulky external trackers which add weight and cost to the system. For this reason, CPV has not yet made an impact on the rooftop solar market.
"That's because until now no-one has found a way of making a small and precise 2-axis tracking system at a reasonable cost," explained On-Sun CEO Andy Tomlinson. "It's a major step forward to have demonstrated this breakthrough product and to attain this level of performance, especially given that it has been designed to achieve a lower manufacturing cost than crystalline silicon products."
In a first for CPV, On-Sun has delivered a high-efficiency CPV product in a fixed, flat module of a similar size to standard silicon PV panels. On-Sun's modules include a patented 2-axis tracking system that operates completely within the confines of the fixed module casework. The modules can be fitted using standard mounting systems and installers will not require special training. This also allows a large number of On-Sun modules to be installed on a small area of rooftop, which, combined with the high efficiency of those modules, will generate more power at a lower levelised cost of energy (LCOE) than conventional silicon modules.
On-Sun's Chairman, Giles Clark, said; "We are very pleased with achieving this milestone. Our module is already as efficient as the best high efficiency silicon panels, and we intend to raise our efficiency to 25% when we launch the product to market in 2013. We are confident that, in the sunny parts of the world, On-Sun's modules will generate more power at lower cost than any other rooftop system.''
