Micro-concentrator module for Microsystems-Enabled Photovoltaics: Optical performance characterization, modelling and analysis

Prototype micro-concentrating optical modules developed for Microsystems-Enabled Photovoltaics (MEPV) were characterized, modelled, and analyzed. Laboratory and field tests were performed to evaluate the optical performance of the modules. An optical simulation model was constructed based on measured sub-component and material properties, showing a good agreement with on-sun experimental results. Performance of a fully-packaged module integrating 100X micro-scale solar cells (-250μm in diameter) was characterized and projected based on experimental and simulation results. Characterization results and analyses indicate that the micro-concentrator module developed provide desirable performance while maintaining a compact physical profile. The development of a next generation micro-concentrator module is also described.