Citation
Mellor Null, Alexander Virgil and Domenech-Garret, J.L and Chemisana, D. and Rosell, J.I.
(2009).
A two-dimensional finite element model of front surface current flow in cells under non-uniform, concentrated illumination.
"Solar Energy", v. 83
(n. 9);
pp. 1459-1465.
ISSN 0038-092X.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solener.2009.03.016.
Abstract
A two-dimensional finite element model of current flow in the front surface of a PV cell is presented. In order to validate this model we perform an experimental test. Later, particular attention is paid to the effects of non-uniform illumination in the finger direction which is typical in a linear concentrator system. Fill factor, open circuit voltage and efficiency are shown to decrease with increasing degree of non-uniform illumination. It is shown that these detrimental effects can be mitigated significantly by reoptimization of the number of front surface metallization fingers to suit the degree of non-uniformity. The behavior of current flow in the front surface of a cell operating at open circuit voltage under non-uniform illumination is discussed in detail.
