Optimisation of reflector and module geometries for stationary, low-concentrating, facade-integrated photovoltaic systems

The high cost of photovoltaic modules motivates the use of reflectors to increase the electricity production. The system geometry of static low-concentrating PV systems for building-integration with parabolic aluminium reflectors was optimised for maximum annual electricity production. The optical efficiency of systems with different geometries was calculated from short-circuit current measurements on thin film modules and the annual electricity production was simulated. An inclination of the reflectors' optical axis of 35 degrees, resulting in a concentration ratio of 4.65, showed the highest electricity yield per cell area, 120 kWh/m(2) cell area, 72% higher than for a vertical module without reflector. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.