EPRI 25 kW high concentration photovoltaic integrated array concept and associated economics

This paper describes a cost effective photovoltaic array design for the high concentration technology being developed by the Electric Power Research Institute for electric utility scale applications. The concept of an “integrated array” is to attach Fresnel lens parquets directly to the front of the tracker structure and PV panels directly to the back of the structure thereby eliminating redundant structural components. The concept also incorporates the maximum use of automated manufacturing techniques for all components thereby minimizing material waste, fabrication and assembly labor. This paper also describes the results of a first approach cost and economic study for the technology which shows the potential for levelized energy cost below $0.10/kwh for a 50 MW_ac plant given a mature technology