Photovoltaic solutions company Soltec has partnered with the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) to develop a prototype of a two-axis tracker for concentrating photovoltaic applications. The institute’s latest micro-CPV technology reaches 36.5% conversion efficiency and promises to increase electricity generation by 30% compared to the most efficient solutions available today.
This project, led by Fraunhofer ISE (the largest research institute in Europe), aims to use Soltec’s most advanced solar tracker technology and adapt it specifically to the requirements of a new generation of micro-CPV modules, which operate at the concentration of about one thousand suns. The micro-CPV modules place stringent requirements on tracking accuracy in two directions to point the CPV modules always precisely towards the sun, allowing maximum electricity generation from sunrise to sunset.
Soltec will design and build a new solar tracker for Fraunhofer ISE that meets requirements for structural robustness, scalability, cost-competitiveness, and the ability to coordinate precise movements with a wide range of rotations. The first prototype will be used to test the precision of tracking accuracy throughout the day. Later, 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% 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”.
The tracker’s ability to adapt to different orientations and topographic conditions makes it an ideal solution for agrivoltaic applications, like the 2024 Dual-Use Plan of the Year Winner Mammoth Solar.
“This collaboration between Soltec and Fraunhofer ISE confirms the innovative vision of both institutions. It is a pleasure for us to work with this internationally renowned institute, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration in the future to further elevate the use of solar energy. These advancements not only represent a step forward in photovoltaic solar energy but also expand its application possibilities across various sectors,” added Eduardo de San Nicolás, Soltec chief strategy and innovation officer.