Demonstrating reliability in HCPV systems

High Concentration Photovoltaic (HCPV) power sources must compete with established energy sources such as fossil fuel or nuclear power, and must be as reliable and cost effective as other energy sources. HCPV manufacturers must address issues of technology viability, unique design requirements, immature manufacturing processes, quality control, and the impact these have on the reliability over a 25 year life. SolFocus is investing in proving the lifetime of its HCPV product and developing reliability assessment methods. This approach allows the company to provide an industry standard warranty with good knowledge of the financial risks involved and to set a cornerstone for product and company acceptance in the maturing solar industry. The SolFocus Reliability Program is divided into two major areas; panel and tracker reliability. This paper outlines the processes behind each program and summarizes current results.