New-generation concentrator modules based on cascade solar cells: Design and optical and thermal properties

New-generation concentrator modules use III–V nanoheterostructure cascade solar cells the efficiency of which can be raised to 50% for the number of cascades exceeding three. To obtain a high overall efficiency of photovoltaic conversion in power plants and extend their service time, it is necessary that the design of the modules be optimal in terms of optics and thermal engineering. In this work, main challenges in designing solar modules, such as optical concentration of radiation and residual heat removal, are considered. The results of pilot works that have been recently done in the Ioffe Physical Technical Institute are primarily reported.