The rise of non-imaging optics for rooftop solar collectors

Gary Rosengarten, Cameron Stanley, Dave Ferrari, Andrew Blakers, Tom Ratcliff

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

    1 Citation (Scopus)

    Abstract

    In this paper we explore the use of non-imaging optics for rooftop solar concentrators. Specifically, we focus on compound parabolic concentrators (CPCs), which form an ideal shape for cylindrical thermal absorbers, and for linear PV cells (allowing the use of more expensive but more efficient cells). Rooftops are ideal surfaces for solar collectors as they face the sky and are generally free, unused space. Concentrating solar radiation adds thermodynamic value to thermal collectors (allowing the attainment of higher temperature) and can add efficiency to PV electricity generation. CPCs allow that concentration over the day without the need for tracking. Hence they have become ubiquitous in applications requiring low concentration.

    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationNonimaging Optics
    Subtitle of host publicationEfficient Design for Illumination and Solar Concentration XIII - Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Nonimaging Optics
    EditorsJeffrey M. Gordon, Roland Winston
    PublisherSPIE
    ISBN (Electronic)9781510603011
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2016
    EventNonimaging Optics: Efficient Design for Illumination and Solar Concentration XIII - Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Nonimaging Optics - San Diego, United States
    Duration: 28 Aug 201629 Aug 2016

    Publication series

    NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
    Volume9955
    ISSN (Print)0277-786X
    ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

    Conference

    ConferenceNonimaging Optics: Efficient Design for Illumination and Solar Concentration XIII - Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Nonimaging Optics
    Country/TerritoryUnited States
    CitySan Diego
    Period28/08/1629/08/16

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