16 December 2010

Circadian achieves CPV temperature-corrected peak module aperture efficiency of 30%

Circadian Solar of Coventry, UK, which is developing concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) systems incorporating gallium arsenide multi-junction photovoltaic cells, has achieved a temperature-corrected peak module aperture efficiency of 30% during trials at its test site in Lisbon. The DC module efficiency result continues to be reproduced with a number of different modules over the course of the trials.

Circadian has been testing its system, which is designed for optimum performance in sunbelt regions, at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon since June. The trials complement the firm's module evaluation program set up in Cyprus in late 2008. A further test site is being established in the Middle East, as part of the plan to demonstrate cost-effective energy yield in different regions and environments.

Circadian says that it has achieved the DC module efficiency by adopting its Ultra Power Density approach, in which all aspects of system design are engineered holistically to deliver the lowest possible cost of electricity generated. Focusing on the design at the full system level ensures that the CPV modules work most efficiently as part of the complete system. Integral to this has been the firm’s proprietary tracker, which demonstrates outstanding accuracy, even under high wind loading, it is claimed. Circadian expects to announce results of its system testing in early 2011.

“We are seeing rapid progress,” says CEO Jeroen Haberland. “Delivering high-efficiency, reliable electricity at an affordable cost level is of the utmost importance to us, and the latest efficiency result demonstrates that exceptional efficiencies can be delivered without sacrificing affordability,” he adds.

Circadian’s testing is expected to continue into mid-2011 as the firm builds up to manufacturing.

Tags: Circadian CPV GaAs multi-junction PV cells

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