CPV myth busters
Myth:
« CPV is new and, therefore, high-risk. There is little experience with CPV and its materials. »
Truth:
All components used in Soitec’s CPV systems are field-tested and proven. The components are:
- III-V Semiconductors: Mass produced by companies like Boeing and Azur Space; used in satellites for roughly a decade. Tested and manufactured for conditions much harsher than can be found anywhere on earth.
- Metal heat sinks: A simple yet effective piece of metal used to spread out the heat.
- Glass and frame: The front and back plates are made of glass very similar to structural glazing used in skyscrapers around the world. The modules’ frame and glass are much like the double-glazed windows used in today’s buildings.
- Inverters: Used in all renewable energy systems.
- Tracking systems: The motors used in our tracking systems are as well understood as any moving part in an automobile. This is a 100-year-old technology. Tracked PV systems have become quite common in the solar industry.
Myth:
« Tracking systems require high operations & maintenance (O&M). »
Truth:
CPV O&M costs are a bit higher than for stationary PV systems, but lower than for tracked PV systems (the higher efficiency offered by CPV means you need a much lower number of systems).
Myth:
« CPV systems cannot store energy. Therefore, they cannot provide base load supply. »
Truth:
This is true for all renewable energies. There are currently two solutions:
- Use traditional energy sources as a backup
- Develop solutions to store energy and interconnect different grids (the Medgrid initiative is tackling this issue)