QUICKER, CHEAPER CPV

SolFocus Announces New CPV System that Leverages Proven Panel Technology and Optimizes Installation for Large-scale Deployments; Latest SF-1136SX CPV array delivers very high efficiency and comes pre-assembled, ensuring rapid installation
July 11, 2011 (SolFocus)

"SolFocus announced… its latest Concentrator Photovoltaic (CPV) solution -- the SF-1136SX. The new SolFocus CPV array produces more power and also reduces field assembly time by over 50%, allowing for extremely rapid installation at much lower cost…"

schematic of CPV (click to enlarge)

"The new design capitalizes on the success of the company's proven SF-1100P concentrator panel, but increases the level of factory integration, simplifies the mechanical structure, and improves logistics packaging. Each SF-1136SX provides 15.6kWp DC power and is sized for easy installation, minimal impact from the wind, and reduced touch-points in the field…

"The SF-1136SX is constructed using Multi-Panel Assemblies (MPA's) of four panels each, with nine MPAs comprising a single array. The MPA's are precision-assembled at the factory and completely eliminate any field alignment requirements. Installation of the equipment now comprises a series of non-specialized assembly steps, followed by a totally automatic calibration process prior to the start of energy generation…"

click to enlarge

"SolFocus systems are industrialized, using field-proven materials such as glass and aluminum to ensure that they will withstand years of harsh outdoor exposure and continue to generate energy at the predicted high level. Additional benefits include reduced structural steel, more kilowatts per tracker and the lightest environmental footprint of any solar technology…The SF-1136SX will begin to be deployed early in the fourth quarter this year…"