GaAs/Silicon Tandem Micro-Concentrator Module

The GaAs/silicon tandem micro-concentrator module developed at the Australian National University can utilize diffuse and direct sunlight. The direct sunlight is concentrated onto narrow and long GaAs solar cells by long linear-focus non-imaging lenses. The concentrated direct sunlight of long wavelength that cannot be absorbed by the GaAs solar cell passes through the GaAs to the standard size silicon cell. Most of the diffuse sunlight escapes through the sides of the lenses, without being concentrated, towards the conventional silicon cell. The GaAs/silicon tandem micro-concentrator module design has a low profile and weight for use with one-axis tracking standard PV systems. The reliability and stability of GaAs and silicon solar cells fulfils the industry standards for commercial PV modules.