Theoretically, we can displace a maximum of 34% of polycrystalline panels. But it will be very difficult and expensive. And such a panel will never get its money back if we don’t launch it into space. And this slows down the development of alternative energy and limits what we can squeeze out of the sun without covering the entire regional solar panels.
But why make the whole solar cell super-technological, if you can just focus solar radiation on small photovoltaic cells? After all, a small high-efficiency photocell is hundreds of times cheaper than a large canvas. And it was the idea of using solar cells with small high-efficiency photovoltaic cells in combination with light traps and lenses that led to the appearance of Insolight solar panels and other MELA-based batteries (Multi-Element Lenset Array).
Why is this necessary?
Today, buying a polycrystalline solar panel with an efficiency factor of 20% is very, very good. And usually their efficiency ranges from 12-18%. And which one to choose already depends on your area and roof area. Therefore, owners of large plots can take the cheapest option and have their own solar power plant of alternative energy, which is limited in size and capacity only by law. That is, 50 kW is not a problem if there is a place to put it.
On the other hand, the classic 6 acres with a dacha is too small an area even for a 20 kW solar power plant, not to mention 30 kW and 50 kW. But it is quite another matter if you have solar panels with an efficiency of 2-4 times greater. Thus, the required area will be reduced many times.
How does it work?
In general, there are several concepts. The least practical for the average Ukrainian is a battery that resembles an ordinary satellite dish, but instead of a radio signal, the mirror focuses on the photocell reflected sunlight. Unfortunately, this option is too cumbersome for mass use and not very aesthetic.
are more progressive Insolight panels. They use highly efficient photovoltaic cells. They are arranged in a matrix. Instead of glass, such a panel has an array of lenses that focus light on photovoltaic cells. It is worth noting that the base with photocells and the array of lenses are movable and constantly shifted throughout the day. Thus, the focused beam always remains on the photovoltaic cell.
More sophisticated, but slightly better are the MELA solar panels offered here. Their feature is the use of two planes with lenses that form a “trap” for light and normalize the angle of incidence of sunlight. That is, solve the problem of a sharp drop in the efficiency of solar panels
in the morning and evening, when the angle of incidence is far from optimal. In tests, their panels really showed good results. And they also use ordinary amorphous solar panels.
Conclusions
Is it worth looking for such solar panels in the country? Not yet. This technology is still being tested and, unfortunately, has no examples of successful mass commercial use. Therefore, the only thing we can advise you is to keep your hand on the pulse and look towards the usual solar panels and make the most of the green tariff at current rates.