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Concentrating Sun
The Sunflower uses a proprietary Fresnel lens to focus the sun's rays onto a very small piece of photovoltaic material. Our PV cells are among the most efficient in the world with over 35% efficiency. They are composed of three photovoltaic junctions, each of which responds to a different wavelength of light, enabling our cells to produce far more energy than traditional single-layer silicon-based cells. Each cell is backed by a set of aluminum cooling fins that use natural air flow to keep the cell at a low operating temperature despite the concentration levels.
2-Axis Tracking
In order for a high-concentration solar concentrator to work, the lens must be pointed directly at the sun. This requires a tracking system that moves the module in two axes. Our product tracks the sun by moving in altitude (distance above the horizon) and azimuth (the angle across the horizon). The integrated, two-axis, closed-loop tracking system monitors the energy output of the system and uses that information to adjust the positions of the modules for maximum yield without the need for separate sensors.
Low-Profile Design
The Sunflower profile enables it to maintain its position even in high winds. The frames are designed to quickly connect to adjacent units, perfectly spacing them apart to reduce inter-unit shading. This configuration also creates a "peloton" effect – changing the shape of the wind's movement across the units to reduce its ability to move them – much like a group of bicyclists in a race. The result is that Sunflower systems will withstand winds up to 85 mph/Exposure D without requiring any ground penetration.
Power Optimizing and Control System
The Sunflower uses a unique method to improve energy delivery by conditioning modules' power output. This reduces electrical losses within the array and increases the power available at the maximum power point. This improves performance when both shaded modules and unshaded modules are present, and with respect to optimal inverter voltage for a select group of inverters.
Advantages
- Produces more energy than fixed systems
- Uses most advanced, efficient, non-silicon solar cells
- Less expensive than traditional PV
- Integrated mounting reduces installation time
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