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Experiments on solar photovoltaic power generation using concentrator and liquid coolingCalculations and experimental data are presented leading to the development of a practical, economical solar photovoltaic power supply. The concept involves concentration of sunlight up to about 100 times normal solar intensity in a solar tracking collector and directing this to an array of solar cells. The cells are immersed in water circulated from a thermal reservoir which limits cell temperature rise to about 20 C above ambient during the day and which cools to ambient temperature during the night. Experiments were conducted on solar cells using a Fresnel lens for magnification, a telescope equatorial mount with clock drive, and tap water circulated through the solar cell holder cavity. Test results show that cells operate satisfactorily under these conditions. Power outputs achieved experimentally with cell optimized for 25 suns were linear with concentration to about 15 suns. Cells optimized for 100 suns were not available, but a corresponding linear relation of power output with concentration is anticipated. Test results have been used in a design analysis of the cost of systems utilizing this technique.
Document ID
19760031802
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Beam, B. H.
(Beam Engineering, Inc. Sunnyvale, Calif., United States)
Hansen, C. F.
(NASA Ames Research Center Gas-Dynamics and Lasers Branch, Moffett Field, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 8, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1975
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Meeting Information
Meeting: Photovoltaic Specialists Conference
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
Start Date: May 6, 1975
End Date: May 8, 1975
Accession Number
76A14768
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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