Abstract
Solar cell overheating due to high irradiation levels is
a significant problem facing concentrator systems. Some
form of cooling is needed to maintain the highest possible
performance of such systems. Liquid filters may be used
to inhibit unwanted solar radiation from reaching the cell
and thus limit cell-operating temperatures. The performance
of the cooling will depend on the optical properties of
the liquid filter applied, as illustrated in this paper on the
basis of different filters. An ideal filter is identified and its
effects on the systems are described. It is shown, on the
basis of system modeling calculations, that cell performance
could be increased by up to 25% using an ideal filter.
Such a system can reach an efficiency of 22% in a realistic
working environment compared to a STC value of 16%.
The absorbed part of the incident radiation can be used as
a heat source, so adding to the potential value of the system.