APS installation and operation of 300 kW of Amonix High Concentration PV systems

Since early 2001, Arizona Public Service (APS) has been installing and routinely operating Amonix High Concentration Photovoltaic (HCPV) systems, using Fresnel lenses and high-performance silicon PV cells for the generation of electricity. Currently, over 275 kW-AC are in grid-connected service over three sites in the Phoenix, Arizona area, with good performance that is approaching predictions. Installations continue with over 1 MW-AC planned, representing the largest installation of HCPV technology for commercial operation in the world to date. Manufacturing experience indicates that at volumes of only 5 MW/year an installed cost of $4000/kW-AC can be achieved, significantly lower than conventional PV.